Protests erupt in unrecognized Abkhazia over investment deal with Moscow

Echo of the Caucasus reported the information.

The outlet noted that the so-called authorities of Abkhazia view the agreement with Russia as "a stimulus for the local economy," while protesters consider the deal a "direct betrayal of Abkhazia's interests."

The "parliament" had planned to review the relevant project today, November 15, but the session was canceled, according to Echo of the Caucasus. Meanwhile, protesters demanded that the session be held and voted "against" the project's approval.

Later, the outlet reported that protesters dismantled the fence near the building of Abkhazia's "parliament." It was subsequently revealed that smoke grenades were used against the demonstrators.

Local Telegram channels also reported that the rally featured calls for the resignation of Abkhazia's so-called leader, Aslan Bzhania.

• In early September, the head of the self-proclaimed Abkhazia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sergey Shamba, stated that as of September 1, Russia had suspended social payments for teachers, doctors, and law enforcement personnel in the region.