This is the moment Georgian police arrested the country’s opposition leader. This footage was broadcast live on television. Nika Melia heads the United National Movement (UNM) opposition party. Crowds of his supporters clashed with police as Melia’s offices were teargassed and stormed. Many of Melia’s supporters were also taken into custody. 

The Prime Minister stepped down earlier in protests of the planned arrest. Melina is accused of inciting violence at street protests in 2019. But Melina denies the claim and says the charges are politically motivated.

Many in Georgia, including Melia, want the country to join NATO. But some in power have close ties to bordering Russia and are opposed to membership.

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