Abkhazia's Turmoil Over Russian Economic Pact

In Abkhazia, a region under Russian control, thousands of opposition supporters have stormed the parliament in a fierce protest against a proposed economic agreement with Russia. The demonstrators fear that the deal would enable Russian oligarchs to purchase land, significantly inflating property prices and increasing Russian influence in the area.

Security forces responded aggressively, using tear gas to disperse the crowd. Amid escalating tensions, the president announced the withdrawal of the draft law aimed at ratification.

The unrest highlights the deep-seated concerns of the local population regarding foreign investment and sovereignty. With thousands of Russian soldiers stationed in the region and its status as an independent state recognized by Moscow, the situation remains precarious.

Travel advisories are in place as the residents grapple with the implications of potential economic upheaval and loss of control over their territory.