Protesters Storm Abkhazia Parliament Over Russia Deal

Protesters in Abkhazia stormed the regional parliament, forcing the government to halt a controversial investment deal with Russia. The deal raised fears of damaging the region's natural beauty with new construction projects. The unrest led to the temporary takeover of the presidential administration building and prompted the Abkhazian president to withdraw the treaty from parliament. Russia expressed concern over the protests, which it claims are escalating tensions in the region. Abkhazia, recognized by most of the world as part of Georgia, has a history of opposition to foreign land ownership.