Georgians protest, forcing Russian cruise liner out of Batumi port

nv.ua: Protests erupted in the Georgian cities of Tbilisi and Batumi in response to the arrival of the cruise liner Astoria Grande in Georgia, carrying over 800 tourists, the majority of whom were Russian citizens, as reported by Georgian media outlets Georgia.Online and Netgazeti on July 27.

Eventually, the liner left the port two days ahead of schedule.

The ship had arrived in the country from Sochi on July 26. In a display of strong dissent, Batumi residents gathered near the vessel the following evening, brandishing placards with inscriptions such as “Abkhazia is Georgia,” “Russia is an occupant,” “Leave our country,” “Russia deprives us of our homeland, life, and future,” and “Russian warship, go f**k yourself.”

The outrage among the Georgian population was not only fueled by the liner’s arrival but also by some Russian tourists’ troubling statements claiming that “Russia liberated Abkhazia from Georgians.” Moreover, some of these tourists openly admitted to visiting the region – occupied by Russia since 2008 – an action that violates Georgian law.

Activists voiced their determination to hold those responsible accountable, stating, “They must endure constant discomfort and face a dignified response for the offensive remarks they made in our city, Batumi, disrespecting our dignity, self-respect, and patriotism.”

During the protest, a Russian flag was briefly displayed in one of the ship’s cabins, but it was swiftly removed. Additionally, some Russian tourists responded with offensive gestures and attempted to obstruct the protesters.

Similar protests were reported near the Parliament of Tbilisi, indicating widespread public discontent. An hour after the demonstration, the liner eventually departed from the port.

Russia occupies two Georgian territories – Abkhazia and South Ossetia, establishing so-called pseudo-republics in these regions. While these territories are nominally considered independent, they are largely controlled by Moscow. More recently, in 2022, following the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, Kremlin proxies in Abkhazia and South Ossetia both expressed intentions to “unite” with Russia.