Protesters and cops clash in Georgia after nation's parliament passes hated pro-Russian law

Protesters vented their fury outside parliament in Georgia yesterday (Tues) as a hated new law was passed pushing the former Soviet state closer to Vladimir Putin.

Georgia’s pro-Russian government ignored tens of thousands of demonstrators besieging their assembly to pass Putin-inspired laws cracking down on press freedom.

Protesters screaming “Russians!” and “slaves!” began tearing at metal barriers with crow bars trying to reach MPs in the building in capital Tbilisi.

Fears of further unrest - and even rebellion - spiralled over the new “foreign agent” law which could thwart the nation’s bid to join the EU.

TV footage showed protesters using metal railings and iron bars to tear at eight-foot metal fencing erected to shield the parliament building

But hundreds of black-clad riot police backed by water cannon moved in to disperse the chanting throng of young protesters, who vowed to fight on as they fled.

Snatch squads of black-hooded cops were seen rushing into crowds to beat and arrest protesters.

Freedom campaigners say the controversial foreign influence bill - which targets organisations and independent media which receive foreign funding - is based on Putin laws.

They say it will allow hardliners in government to quash opposition - Russian-style.

The EU granted Georgia - which borders Russia - candidate status to join the bloc in December, but has warned the new law could jeopardise its bid.

Russian forces occupy around 20% of Georgia’s internationally recognised territory.