by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor

Protests have continued for a fourth consecutive night in Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, following the government's decision to suspend discussions on joining the European Union for four years.

The unrest, which began after the announcement on 28 November, has now spread beyond the capital.

Demonstrators have blocked an access road to the main commercial port in the Black Sea city of Poti. The port handles approximately 80% of Georgia's container traffic and is managed by APM Terminals, a subsidiary of Maersk.

Protests have erupted in at least eight other cities and towns, including Khashuri.

The police have responded to the widespread unrest with tear gas and water cannons, leading to the detention of over 150 protesters nationwide.

The situation remains tense as opposition to the government's decision grows.