Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:24:48 GMT

What goes around comes around. Russia effectively prevented attack on Iran from the North. At the same time it beat a crap out of Bushes puppet Sukashvili. Genocide occurs only when NATO declares it, not when it's proxies or "allies" commit it. Have a nice day now!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

piroo, Tirana, Albania — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:25:44 GMT

Dear Sir,
I agree with Your opinion generally to say, but I have to ad something alse. Not every war is made only for oil. Autor can remember the famous `sanitar cordon` in time of Stalin rised by West to isolate USSR. Now is the same thing but with different names. nd Russia dont want to isolate again ..

Respect by

Pirro Prifti

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mike Reynolds, Chest. MO — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:25:53 GMT

Good article, but what russia is really afraid of is the freedom to own property (capitalism).
Democracy may or may not provide that.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Russ Newland — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:30:02 GMT

If this is our ally why did we let this happen ?????

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Skip Goddard — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:37:47 GMT

If the Ossetia region does not want to be Georgian, why not let it be an independant enclave, free of both Georgia and Moscow?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Myrna — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:40:22 GMT

My Godchild wrote this in a letter to me this morning from Tbilisi:

...When we thought that the situation in general was settling in Georgia all changed in 2 days. Our economy and infrastructure is mainly destroyed but there is a lot humanitarian aid for Georgia which will definately help the country... USA is giving 1 billion $ and has sent several aircrafts and ships with humanitarian aid. Since Poti is our port and now its controlled (by) Russians, the ship arrived in Batumi; this ship is amazing, they said that in total such "destroyer" exist 28 in total and 1 is sent to us. Russia has to really take some diplomatic steps; yesterday they had a special meeting in Duma about announcing South Osetia and Abkasia as independent countries, hope the president Medvedev will change his mind and not sign the document. Otherwise I dont know what may happen.

All summer we spent in Tbilisi, how much I wished to have little break.
Take care darling it was very nice to hear your voice but its hard to express anything when they are bombing you.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

John Doe — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:41:39 GMT

Yes, it is not fear of NATO, it is fear of US pushing NATO against Russia, especially new "pro western" (but really US baked) "democracy" that has nothing to do with Democracy.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Black Horse Redleg Colorado Springs — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:41:45 GMT

Study history and you will see that in the last 8 years or so, there has been a huge out cry from the Russian press, including the murder of anti Putin politicals in both Russia and England. We in the West and our governments only said how Putin was a friend of ours.
We Westerners will sleep with anyone that has oil. Saudis or Russians.
Well, looks like we now have a new market for Surface to Air and Anti Tank Missles.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Toni Bourlon, Warr Acres, OK — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:41:52 GMT

I don't know, I still think it's oil. Control certainly is an issue, but Russia is trying to establish itself as a primry energy producer for Europe. Controling the pipeline, or at least being able to influence it, would be a major step toward accomphishing that goal. And then there's the missle shield that will go into Poland. THAT will be the next battleground.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

michael, moscow,ru — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:42:09 GMT

again miss!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Sam Miami, FL — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:43:53 GMT

You completely don't know history and reality of postsoviet countries and their political elites. Azerbaijan is a complete dictatorship which was controled all the time by the clan of Alievs, originally by Geidar Aliev, who was Communist Party Secretary and KGB man, and after his death by his son Ilham.
Presidents of both Georgia and Ukraine like all their political elites grew from the same manure that Putin.
The only difference that Putin a Rusian nationalist, but they are their own.
Both presidents of Ukraine and Georgia crazy antirussian dictators.
About Suckashvily democratism have you forgot that he arested opposition leaders, closed opposition media, introduced State of Emergency before his own elections and killed his first Prime minister Zhvania and Georgian-Jewish magnat Badri Patarkatsishvili, who trusted his media assets to the owner of F...News Rupert Murdoch(who betrayed him).
President of Ukraine made heroes of Ukrainian Nazi collaborators with Jewish blood on their hands.
So learn history before writing this.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

oea — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:53:13 GMT

No Jim Maceda, it is not about Russia not being democratic enough, it is about that we need a bogeyman man to justify the orders for new weapons to our military complex, that died out with the collapse of the Evil Empire and the Cold War, we need to resuscitate it, by provoking Russia with our new vassals (Estonia, Poland, Ukraine, etc) at Moscow's door step.
You failed to mention anything about Georgia, which performed a big anti-democratic crackdown a year ago, bombing of South Ossetia during the Olympic truce, which shows where you are coming from, and how low moral you have.
You should have mentioned that this is exactly what we did to Serbia in Kosovo, only the Russian were faster in the outcome; so yes, Russia is doing better, and is strong enough to pay us back, and as everybody saw, there is nothing that even cowboy conservatives can do about it, except like you whine and scare the American ignorant public, because Russia is not Iraq, our bravado has its limit.
Last the world is not the EU and the US, there are hundreds of nations that don't give a damn about Serbia or Georgia, you cannot isolate Russia, because half of Europe energy comes from it, and Russia leaders have a higher approval than ours.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

oea — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:54:41 GMT

Is this caching and moderation or filtering and censorship, I placed a comment and I don't see anything posted.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

New Yorker — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 13:57:53 GMT

Well, Georgia is not exactly "Western freedoms" - remember that it all started with their brutality against South Ossetia (which is not any better at best) - but the general idea is quite correct. Add to this that Russia was always arrogant and unfriendly to anything foreign, and was always envious to the West, trying to "compensate" their own inability to have a decent life with all their resources by claiming they are "spiritual" while the rest of humankind, West especially, "consumer societies" - and you get why it's hysterically anti-Western now and why what happens happens. Oh, and whoever is going to claim I don't know what I'm talking about - I'm former Soviet citizen, occationally visiting Russian sites and forums - plenty of them are just outlet of arrogance and hatred towards us. We'll survive it, yet again - will they?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Russ, New Jersey — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:08:12 GMT

All well and good-understood. But on the other hand, why are we against the independence of two areas that clearly do not coexist well with the Georgians? Isn't it against our very nature NOT to support self determination of a people? It seems that we are pushing a situation that is against our very nature just for the sake of energy and expansion of democracy.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Keri Ann Dyson San Diego, CA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:09:53 GMT

Let's keep our nose out of this one- we can not be going around the world, lecturing governments on the wrongs of invading on a whim, when we supplied the UN with false Intel and invaded Iraq, killing over 100 thousand innocent civilians through collateral damage, in any wonder the Iraqi PM is saying its time for our troops to get the hec out.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Jim Wilson, Rowland Hts, CA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:11:13 GMT

If in order to win an approval rating from Bush43 Russia has to move directly from autocracy to 'downtown' democracy, it isn't going to make it. But who made this call?

I suggest you get out your history books and read how in 1931 & ff Abkhazia went from whatever autonomy was available in the Soviet Union to a dependency of Georgia through a deal worked out between Beria and Dzhugashvili, two old Georgia hands. And as you might guess the sequel was written mostly in Abkhazian blood.

The concept that this deal is now cast in stone and has the imprimatur of Washington is too absurd for words. This is Russia's backyard and they will make the call.

And neither side is even remotely considering war, so relax.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Maksim Tsionskiy Hollywood FL — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:18:07 GMT

Its not the fear of democracy, oh please. You can't have western democracy everywhere. Plus a dictator is dictator don't matter if US puppet or Russias puppet. Georgian President is western dictator who provoked war with Russia in first place, please stop this biased media. The biggest faults is US. By trying to dominate balkans and coming close to Russia every single time. You cornered the angry bear what you expect him to do? Plus US does the same thing. We complain about Georgia? what we did to Serbia is unlawful too. So they now have good reason to do it too.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mike Linn, Indianapolis, Indiana — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:18:32 GMT

If you'll read George Friedman's report (see the Stratfor Report), you will better understand Russia's panic over having NATO surrounding it in eastern Europe. I am NOT defending Russia, but the advancing of NATO and its actions in Kosovo are Russia's "Cuban Missile crisis." There is much more to this story than has been reported in the general media.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Russ, Burleson, Texas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:26:27 GMT

Russia is the same today as it has been for years. We must never trust them to do anything they may say publicly. They are like our politicians and will say whatever it takes to make one think they are going to do what they should but they are actors as our politicians are and are only out for more power in this world. Just look at our own politicians. Do they do what the majority of our citizens want done?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Dennis Inegedu, Kano, Nigeria — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:27:29 GMT

Democracy is not synonymous with NATO membership. You Can have democracy without necesserilly being a NATO member. This conflict is all about encircling Russia Militarily and Russia is right to take whatever measure it deems fit to protect itself. Analyst like you always try to obfuscate the real facts. But intelligent people are not decieved.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Straight Shooter , California — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:35:41 GMT

"Freedom and Democracy" How much of that was being spread around last year prior to elections when Mikhail Saakashvili sent in heavily armed goons to shut down the only opposition TV station and also used tear gas and rubber bullets on opposition demonstrators in Tblisi's main sqaure? Why doesn't Condaleeza Rice mention this or anything about the Georgian military starting the conflict with it's heavy assult using Grad rockets on the civlian town of Tskinvali? Because Condi and our present administration in Washington are hypocrites who want the world to only see one side of the story and believe their one sided over simplified soundbites.At least Putin and Medvedev don't try to be warm and fuzzy while carrying out the policy they feel is in Russia's National interest, meanwhile Rice and George Bush continue to cloak everything in their "City on a Hill" message while continuing to violate all kinds of rules of civilized conduct.......if you are going to talk the talk, walk the walk instead of trying to play the public for a bunch of fools (this from an American who has spent lots of time in the ex Soviet Union,

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Brian Y. — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:36:35 GMT

Why is it that everyone has loss site of what started this war? Look I served in Iraq with Georgian soldiers. My heart goes out to those citizens displaced due to it. Abkhazia and South Ossetia have governed themselves for almost 20 years. They were officially citizens of Georgia although 90% of them hold Russian passports. Georgia attacked with it's military, it's citizens, this is an act that cannot be trivialized. The Bush administration and reporters like Jim Maceda would have you believe it is Russia that is the aggressor. No, Russia responded as any people of good moral conscience would have. They, these Kremlin authoritarian mega-capitalists as Mr. Jim Maceda likes to call them did for people who by all rights deserved their freedom from tyrannical military oppression, Georgian military oppression. The irony of the situation doesn't pass me by. We get the victim card played by the Georgian president and to extent it rings true. You see as with most wars it is the absolute failure of their government that brings massive atrocities. The Georgian people are in fact victims...but of their governments actions. The resulting response from Russia is the consequence of choice on the part of Georgia's government to attack free citizens. This is what should be addressed in the media so that future incident's of this nature can be avoided. When you attack your people with military force you lose the right to govern them. Perhaps Mr. Putin's goals are more far reaching than just helping stop the slaughter of a free people. The fact is that he did what needed to be done. Just like we don't do what needs to be done in places like Darfur. Jim Maceda shame on you for not reporting the truth and spreading your cold war fears to a new generation.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Nathan Young Billings Mont — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:38:19 GMT

I don't know if I agree with the fact it was over the threat of democracy and that Cheney's visits did not have to do entirely with oil but still an overall great story

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Kyle MN — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:40:00 GMT

The problem, and what everyone seems to ignore, is that these two areas don't want to be a part of Georgia. Likewise Georgia attacked it by no means lightly. And the way the U.S. treats this is like everything else, don't do as we do but do as we say. We're like an alcoholic telling people not to drink. It's hardly surprising that Russia really doesn't care what we think, what do we have to offer them? All we do is expand closer and closer to them, and ignore their opinions and viewpoints. Ever since Russia has been more assertive and found their way so to speak, the Russian people have prospered more and finally have some semblance of prosperity, why would they not be pro Putin? The democracy in Georgia is a joke, if that's what Bush and his cronies deem the shining torch of liberty we're really on the wrong path.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Ben Willis — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:43:09 GMT

Great article Jim!!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

DeeMan — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:46:02 GMT

The real question is who and how will we deal with this threat? Is Obama ready for this type of conflict? Does the world believe he is ready? Would McCain, albeit a more known military leader be a bigger deterent to Putin?

If no entity will slap Russia's hand and the UN and NATO are certainly not up for the task, who will the Georgians turn to? The defeatist talk among many of our own people have emboldened Putin who hopes to slip Russia back into the "Player" category.

It's sad that Democracy is only worth defending if it is our Democracy, not someone elses, it seems.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Joel B, San Jose, CA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:49:06 GMT

Sigh. Another story, or speech, or whatever, that says "They hate our freedoms." That view is both infantile and wrong. It's infantile because it plays to the simplest movie-matinee villian-of-the-week desires we all want to view the world in, and it's wrong because, while Russia never should have done what it did, the issues that bug Russia aren't so easy. First, the borders of Georgia were drawen based on the borders that happened to exist at the collapse of the Soviet Union; those borders, under a dictatorial goverment, were not 'natural' borders but administrative details, much like the split of East and West Germany was an administrative detail that split famililes. So, there is some true frustration in some of the people of Georgia that they ended up on "the wrong side of the fence" - and that is part of what's being played out. Second, NATO (or Poland with missiles) is viewed as frustrating to the hawks and population in Russia, as a communist government in Cuba was viewed by us circa 1960. Also remember, that lots of people in Russia view Georgia as a 'breakaway state' - if Florida broke away from the USA and later formed an alliance with Russia, how many people in the USA would want us to send troops there? And I imagine some of the population of Russia is cheering Putin, thinking "Russia is proud once again."

I am not a fan of the increasing totalitarian nature of Russia; I am not a fan of excessive force (which is what they used); I don't like what's happened in Georgia - at all. But if you simply equate it to "they hate our freedoms" without understanding the complexities, you run the risk of missing the truth of what we are facing here: A former superpower wants to be a superpower again. So it flexes its muscles just to show it <i>can</I>, and to play up to the supporters back home. That's the issue here.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

R.Burke Norfolk,Va — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:51:50 GMT

Sorry to go against the patriotic rah-rah for democracy rant, but I don't believe Russia is worried about democracy spreading among its neighbors. Rather they see the West and especially the US forming military alliances with those neighboring states. As mentioned earlier in the article, the motivation on our side is to gain control of energy resources and pipelines in the region, but outside of Russian control.
The governments in those countries are far from being true democracies. Holding elections means nothing of the opposition candidates are harassed and even arrested by the party in power. Similar governments in places without oil are lectured and sanctioned by the US, but having oil automatically makes a country a democracy.

Imagine the outrage if Russia started making alliances and establishing military bases in Trinidad, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Mexico. Just by coincidence all these countries produce oil and surround the oil-rich Gulf of Mexico. Would we believe them if they said this was only to "help protect their sovereignty from undue US influence"?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Ed Mullenix, Plano, Texas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:52:49 GMT

Since it has become public knowledge that the U.S. military is presently stretched to the limit, it is no wonder that Moscow has tested the limits of NATO tolerance. The U.S. is the biggest player on the NATO team (albeit hamstrung by our current commitments) and without any real consensus from our allies, Moscow quite literally has nothing to lose. What suprises me is that other nations are not attempting the same thing, i.e. China vs. Taiwan.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

travis calgary canada — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:56:25 GMT

ha ha ha you need to look in your own backyard if you want to see a leader who is distroying democracy. you only have two parties to vote for and a president that veto's everything that does not fit his agenda. The American president is outraged to see Russia invade Gorgia, wake up..... Iraq , afganistan possibly Iran. Usa is no different than russia, they all want to protect their intrests. Painting the Usa in a different light is just part of the propaganda agenda that you have helped perpretrate

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Ross W, Beaumont, Texas — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:05:39 GMT

As a news correspondent, I don't see Jim's analysis why Georgia started the war. From all I read in this paper, it's totally Russia's intention to have the war. I'd like to see the views from both sides. And, can anyone start a WAR against another country without a good cause in the 21st century, unless that country is Iraq?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

william doubt — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:12:52 GMT

Bush has no business in Georgia and the other states that broke from Russia, Forcing Poland to except a missle defense at our expense is dumb. It is Bush is is renewing the cold war. Russia backed off until Bush put american advisors in Georgia and the other border states.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Carmen Teixeira, Bridgetown, Barbados. — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:20:03 GMT

Jim, you are so right. I am 70 years of age and have followed the Soviet Union Communistic movement for many, many years and thats why I feel it is time for Americans and the rest of the world to get a wake up call before it is too late, God Bless you Jim and GOD BLESS AMERICA. - DEMOCRACY

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Shawn, Cincinnati, OH — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:26:01 GMT

I think you're mostly right. Controlling the flow of Oil to western Europe is key to Russia's future designs, as it silences European critics with the fear of a cold winter, as well as the continuing to re-ignite Soviet style nationalism via militarism on the back of European energy consumption.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

CARLOS — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:27:19 GMT

I have to disagree that democraCy is what the kremlin fears. It is about control and re-establishing Russia as world power.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Greg Moore, Millbrook AL — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:30:40 GMT

Jim, I believe you've got it figured out. This event in Georgia deserves so much more attention from the West than it seems to be getting. All Westerners planning vacations abroad should seriosly consider a trip to Georgia to show support for these brave people.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

C. C. CLUTE Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:31:37 GMT

good insights jim - I would agree on many points made here… first that so many Americans haven’t a clue what is going on in this region or the details of the conflict. Second, that Russia with its vast resources hardly needs to be in conflict with the USA and others over an oil pipeline. (as much as they might like this advantage for control of others like Ukraine) Third, it’s planned timing of the attack during the Olympics and our prime election coverage’s. It is very much the threat of democracy nipping at their heels of every border. If Iraq is successful and Ukraine continues to be successful in maintaining a new democracy, it can be assumed that more will follow. That is the real threat to those in the political power class of Russian society. That they are becoming more isolated from the world of change and freedom. Added by the real threat of abandoning any cooperative effort with NATO alliances, they will isolate themselves further. Lastly, and maybe more importantly, I feel it has been a great opportunity for the Russian military to show it’s new strength and ability to quickly execute a fairly large scale assault on any nearby nation. They said they would retaliate on the Poland ‘missile crisis’ and they have made good on their threat in perfect timing. Look at how far into the country they quickly established control direct to the sea ports, or capitol city, had they choose to remain. Now retreating only to the republics of which they originally are to acquire, strategically inside the natural border. This is the message they wish the world to see also. We are powerless to their will in this incident… they appear to have won the battle for now. We will see what the future holds, as it again fades to the distant view of the many Americans, or our political interests.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

SB, Virginia — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:34:17 GMT

The way I see it.. they get their 'free' invasion... I said this when we invaded Iraq.. Russia gets a free one. I find it funny that McCain said(concerning the conflict) that we do NOT invade other countries in the 21st century.

Right or wrong, it's a 'get out of jail free card'.
Two wrongs may not make a right, but as I said in as early as fall 2002.. an invasion by us in Iraq will set a precidence for other nations. Why not Russia and Georgia? Or China and Taiwan?

Good luck Georgia, but there is little we can really do for you.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Larry Clifton — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:37:25 GMT

Talk about overstating the obvious with great drama for effect. I guess the younger generation needs a little help with history, but I thought everyone was clear on why the Russion and Soviet leaders fear the West. They are Communists. Communist can not survive where there is individual freedom. Sheesh!!!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

trh — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:37:43 GMT

the west likes things in black and white,suddenly putin is not gray anymore!what a relief things got so clear again!without a team their is no need for a captain,so now the us and russia have their roles back again.thank you MR putin!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Michael, Albuquerque, NM — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:40:25 GMT

This was was about several things.

1. Russia reasserting their dominance on the world stage.
2. Payback for the West recognizing Kosovo and shutting Russia out of the Balkans.
3. Showing former Soviet Satellites that NATO is an empty threat to Russia and that the West has very little influence, political or military, to stop them.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Taco Amsterdam — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:42:45 GMT

You must be joking.
2004 Saakashvili won the presidential elections in Georgia with more than 96% of the votes cast. You believe this is possible in a democracy.
A significant source of funding for the Rose Revolution was the network of foundations and NGOs associated with American billionaire financier George Soros. What do Americans think if it turns out Obama is funded by the Rusians.
Are there democratic leaders that bomb there own populations like he did in Tskhinvali. Why did the West want to get rid of democratic elected Milosowitsch? Not because he was a democrat.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Bachir Niah — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:43:04 GMT

but, is America still a democratic country?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Dan Ilic, Conyers, GA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:43:15 GMT

do you folks remember what we did to Serbia and Kosovo? Maybe even Bosnia? nRussians are paying us back

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

jj, tampa bay, FL — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:45:14 GMT

putting missiles in poland is like russians putting missiles in cuba in 1962, georgians expected a full back up from the us, wich at this point is in no position, cause of iraq and afganistan, Georgian attack Ossetia first, If any part of the World desires to break from Georgia, so be it, is their business, Lets say Texas wants independence form the US, YEah, right, The US would allow it.or not, prepotence has his limits and stupidity well, lets say Bush is the king of it.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:47:29 GMT

Jim, if democracy's basic ingredient is the right to speak, and you advocate that, then why do you have this...
"All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread"

You're not credible!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Kevin C, New York, New York — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:48:43 GMT

Boycott all goods from Russia.
tell all investor to move there investments away from Russia.

Past it on.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mike — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:49:07 GMT

Comparing this to Iraq is a joke.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Svetlana — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:49:56 GMT

Georgia has begun silly war. They have destroyed huge quantity of civilians of Abkhazia and Ossetia. Unless they can name these regions the?? It is a genocide.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Ron, Columbus, GA — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:51:48 GMT

Terrific article. Well done Jim Maceda.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Johnny Michigan — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:53:39 GMT

God bless America that's all u got right.
We have to be into those other countries, and put build missle defense bases. if we dont who will the terrorists. Common be real, the rest of the world can say anything they want but nothing to the U.S.
I love this country and this country is doing the right thing.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Shawn, Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:56:18 GMT

This is all about the U.S. neocon agenda, aligned with Israel, to push the New World Order. It was our CIA that brought Democracy into Georgia during the "Rose Revolution". We are planting missles in all the countries surrounding Russia (i.e. Poland, Chech., etc.) that the U.S. claim are to defend Europe against Iran and N. Korea, yet neither have a missle that can reach that far.

We are encircling Russia and attempting to tighten the noose. You people need to wake up. During the Cold War, America feared Russia because they wanted to put missles in Cuba. Now the tables have turned, and we are putting missles around Russia. If anyone has started the new Cold War, it is our government and its power hungry neocons. Open your eyes. Quit being sheep and do some research. Watch Loose Change and Endgame on youtube.com. Visit infowars.com

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Byron, Pocatello, ID — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 15:59:20 GMT

No one wants a war with Russia. However, we must vigeroulsy support those countries that want democracy and freedom and that have cast their lot with the west. If we don't support this countries, they will learn quickly that to be linked witht he west and the US is not worth the risk. On another note, this is an issue on which the west and especially Europe must unite and on which we must be really to take action. I am tired of the US carrying so much of the load on issues that affect European contries. It is time for them to stand up and put not only in retoric but in committment of money, equipment, and personnel.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

John Omaha, Nebraska — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:00:23 GMT

Ok, once again, if you live long enough you eventually see and hear everything. This is the first time I ever saw the words Kremlin and Capitalists used in the same sentence.

Look, this is about Russia trying to strong arm its anti-western sentiments and morph it into controlling the oil traffic through a neighboring country. The West need not stand for this kind of obstinence any longer. It is time for Russia to realize, that by forestalling democracy, they are doing nothing but trying to re-live the good-ole-days of autocracy and the mass murder of nearly 30 million of its own people by its own people.

In no way shape or form are we to be made to believe that a country of 140 million (Russia) is scared of a country of 4 million (Georgia). Russia simply wants to go back to being what it once was, a mean-spirited maniacle pseudo dictatorship.

Is democracy too complicated a concept for thier minds to understand? Are these not the same gifted nuclear physicists that brought us Chernoble? Are these not the mentors of the Iranian Regime's nuclear ambitions? Have they not invaded, looted and destroyed a neigboring country? Have they not kidnapped people from thier home country and takent them back to Russia.

Just how is it that this Putin, or Medvedev are any different than Saddam Hussein or Taraq Haziz?

In the words of my father's generation:
PUTIN -- you got some splainin to do!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Seattle Observer — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:01:41 GMT

an appallingly primitive article, absolute rubbish, as out british friends say. it is neither the pipelines nor the democracy. the georgian pipeline's importance is insignificant, and it is actually better for russia not to control 100% of the caspian oil. and you cannot encircle a country with bases, missiles etc. and expect it to like it. russia is for georgian, ukrainian etc membership in the EU, but is correct to perceive the nato expansion as a threat. by supporting "our SOBs" like saakashvili the west is doing itself and the russian people a huge disservice.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Dominick Testa — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:10:45 GMT

Considering what Russia was enduring under Yelstein, now that was completely scary to watch such a meltdown. Stability is what Putin has restored, even if it has been at a cost of that we in the West condemn. Say what you will, but ideologies do not put food into your stomaches. Poverty, unemployment and anarchy are great forces which can topple any democracy. In times past, our own democratically elected governments have turned the armed forces loos upon us, if you will check Depression era history. If Ukraine and Poland had not succeeded financially, do you think they would have embraced democracy and NATO as they have? Or would they also have sacrificed ideological principles for the stability of a strong central government?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Vassiliy Shaba, Moscow, Russia — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:11:07 GMT

It's true that Putin's government is anti-democratic, but Georgia is not the best example of democracy either, with opposition being crushed recently, and lots of instability in the last 15 years.

So while I deplore anti-democratic moves by Putin, I would disagree with your diagnosis. I suspect this kind of nationalistic move would have been supported even by the most democratic Russian government, especially after Kosovo.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mike, Miami, FL — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:11:50 GMT

Why do governments insist on deciding what is right for the people regardless of what the people really want? South Ossetia and Abkhazia want out of Georgia rule. Why not let them out? If we follow this logic then give Taiwan back to China, not likely! China host the Olympics and all are fine with that regardless of the human rights issues and other major government failures. Yet everyone is in an uproar because the bully, got bullied. S Ossetia was attacked by Georgia least we forget. If the two republics want out let them out! I'm in no way defending Russia's actions. But it is amazing to see the inconsistenty in US foreign policy. Cuba gets an embargo China gets the Olympics and all our export dollars. Look at Beijing, beatiful city, paid by the US dollars like the rest of China, Cuba is falling apart yet Cuba is lees Communist today than China. Why not have elections in South Ossetia and Abkhazia and have the people choose!!! Is that not real democracy?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Boris Bettenhoff — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:18:40 GMT

Shawn:

Missiles have nothing to do with it. The Russians, Americans, Brits, and probably the Chinese already have missiles (including numerous nukes) submerged in Boomers off your nearby coast as I write. No, it's about power and control and dumb arse politicians wishing to establish their concept of what's right and wrong.

Also the cold war goes way back to post WWII (way before the Cuban missile crisis). The allies at Pottersdam conceded way too much of Eastern Europe to the Soviets and set the stage for the Berlin airlift and consequentially, the Berlin Wall...a wall to keep people in not out.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Gary, Toronto, Ontario — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:19:10 GMT

Oh, please. Condi said that invasions don't happen in the 21st century. She must have a bad memory, somebody should remind her of Bagdad. I guess the thought of oil clouds her memory. Thank god that we only have oil sands, or our Prime Minister Stephen Harper would be declared a threat to American democracy.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

gasious, fairfield iowa — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:23:25 GMT

Well lets see, is it our money or Russias money mongers. It's not governments, its big business, and in the US its in our government, strange it's also in Russias government. Big money rules and big money always stays in there own world. If the little guy doesn't make it well there's, 2 billion more.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

ruth hanna, Conroe Tx — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:29:39 GMT

I do agree that they totally fear democracy, but they need the oil pipeline to in order to fight against it.
Russian leaders are going the way of Iran. Say what the people want to hear and then do the opposite. Putin and his lap dog can't be trusted.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

John Doe is Clueless — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:44:22 GMT

of course Russia isn't afraid of a cold war, what they are afraid of is Sanctions. Let them have Ossetia, Sanction them, Isolate them. Ossetia gains them nothing other than some fake pretense of having some sort of power after a state like Chechnya has defied them. In truth they are a shadow of the shadow they were. They gain nothing by taking Ossetia other than pushing the other former USSR states to become a part of NATO. They're backing themselves into a corner.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

pattherealist — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:04:59 GMT

Everyone stop picking on Russia. Dont listen to the "Cheneyites".
Russia just dosent want the world to be a place where rich peoples poodles eat better and have much better health care than poor peoples children! which is what Western style democracy has brought us!!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Bekim Lashi, Amsterdam, Holland — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:08:17 GMT

Why does Russia think that its entitled to have countries around itself that dance to its pipes?????
What makes Russia so special that it reserves a right to mengle in the internal affairs of every country close to its borders???? This has to end! Every country, whether its Georgia, Poland, Ukraine, or any Baltic state, has the right to selfdetermination. If Russia does not like whats its neighbours are doing, maybe its because it has expantionistic dreams of a new USSR. Well, USSR is dead! You cant force nations to live together. Stop!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

COWBOY, HOUSTON, TEXAS — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 04:40:09 GMT

Despite their unimpressive little dog & pony show...the Russian military is weak, undertrained & broke. The West would crush them in days in an all out effort.

It is simply pathetic that we did not stand with our ally Georgia, shoulder to shoulder on the battle field.

Three good neutron drops would have left all those T-90S rusting in sun in the first hour.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

juma — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:10:57 GMT

One thing is that U.S.A. is not in any position to face the former Soviet Union (Russia) in any way. The secret of Russia remains to be that the world doesn't know it remains the USSR that for an unknown reason chose to be under the one name "RUSSIA." This is a nation that I think it is not shaken and cannot be moved by any world's security council or nation and even nations.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

frank, halifax, canada — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:11:17 GMT

this whole issue has to be a joke, america attacked iraq to get ride of saddam becuase he wasn't an american friend. Russia DEFENDED a people who are considered russian citizens "they have russian passports" also the US recognized Kosovo, which was/is part of Serbia so i guess only america has the right to decided which peoples can govern themselves, please your military is over stretched and your economy dieing spend time considering who you want on your side a major world power or some country no american can find on a map

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

CS, Kabul — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:15:54 GMT

Political posturing aside, am I the only one to see the parallel between what Georgia was trying to do in South Ossetia and what Russia itself did in Chechnya - right next door? And how absurd it makes the Russian justification sound?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Hummmm W.I. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:32:07 GMT

Interesting reading these comments. I get the real impression that many of the comments are not from the people or locations that are associated with the comment. I'm a bored person and I read a lot of comments after interesting articles and the grammar in these listed above seem to me to be much less than I would expect from U.S. citizens (as a whole)(given that some are from foreign countries most are from the U.S. Midwest). Reading into the sentiment of the vast majority I would almost suspect that these comments may indeed be intended to sway public interest or drive future articles toward a differing ideology. (I am not a conspiracy nut, just observations and interpolation)

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Paul in Illinois — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 05:53:06 GMT

I typically don't engange in witless banter but this is just too good to pass up. I don't pretend to be political or even well-informed, but I've managed to pick up several tidbits of information that most people don't even mention. The first being why Georgia went into this so-called, autonomous region in the first place. Their justification was that they were going in after militants within Ossetia. This is a true statement, although they may have had other motives, the militants did and still do, exist. The general consensus after the smoke had cleared also appears to be, that these same militants, seeing the Russian troops moving in, grabs their uniforms and guns from under their beds and went off into the countryside looking for a fight. Unfortunately for everyone involved, their fight appears to have been with the Ossetian general populace because they are the ones being blamed for the civilian killings, rapes and general looting of everything that wasn't nailed down. And before you all start railing on me about that's the Russian's story or that's the Georgian's story...neither of these is the case. Those stories are coming from the Ossetian people who spent those two weeks hiding in their basements or fleeing through the wilderness. These types of people DO NOT deserve the right to govern themselves because they are not capable of doing so without putting the women, children and everyone else in the region in very real danger due to their own recklessness. It is in their best interest for one of these Countries, Russia or Georgia, to oversee their politcal governance because they are incapable. Besides, in a region that volatile, what chance do they really have standing on their own, anyway? I'm not here to say Georgia is right, or Russia is right. I'm just saying that the people in South Ossetia and Abkhazia were and still are suffering at the hands of their own people as well. I mean, when you see that the people of these regions lost everything they had...which amounts to little more than a home the size of a toolshed, is it that far of a stretch to say that their self-governance isn't really going all that well and someone needed to step in and give these people a chance at a better life? Sorry for the rant, but come on people, that is, in essence, what Democracy is all about. And every Democratic nation on the planet has had to fight for that freedom. No government just hands over the reigns out of the kindness of their heart.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

lemoncritic — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 06:09:13 GMT

Isn't democracy wonderful, it's now in so many 3rd world countries of South Asia, Africa, East Europed, and in many Arab nations.

Soon every town and city will want to be independent from their own country.

There are always godfather types or tribal leaders that are looking for a bunch of sheep like peoples to lead to the promised land.

Yeah, let them have their independence, it's the democratic way.

But it's not the EU nor the US way.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Gerardo San Martin Mexico Cy., Mexico — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 06:43:14 GMT

What does all this has to do with democracy, as Mr. Maceda wrongly suggests ?

Why did the US supported the independence of Kosovo but now claims that borders cant be redrawned, even if Osetia is mostly a Russian-populated area which falled into another country control when the USSR disappeared ?

An interesting analogy: when the mainly US-born citizens of Texas, a region under Mexican control, where "attacked" (under one version, or "controlled" by the country owning the territory on the other) didnt the US helped the Texans to get their independence, and certainly considered a moral obligation to do so, eventually making Texas part of the US ?

What is the big difference now ?

That the US and Europe would love to control that area, even if it could mean a new cold war ?

Is Mr.Bush so amaizingly short-sighted as to finish his term with such an grandiouse final lack of judgement ?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

David, Nabatieh, Lebanon — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 06:53:05 GMT

I think too many of the commentators are blinded either by Russian nationalism or anti-Bush hatred. I'm neither anti-Russian nor pro-Bush, but it seems clear to me that, following the pattern of Russia towards its neighbors in recent years, they have relapsed to their 20th century ways. Georgia shares blame, but Russia is acting as if they have their own Dick Cheney in charge.

I don't want to hear any more comparisons to Kosovo either. After what the Serbs did to Sarajevo and Srebrenica, how could anybody trust them with the Kosovar Albanians?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Bob, Cocoa FL — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:14:31 GMT

This was well said.

Unless NATO wants to burn wood for fuel, and fight a larger Russia (with its regained empire providing the muscle), they better get off their butts. Russia served the first "volley" in the competition for populations for the next war. When that finally comes, there won't be any "neutral" states left. NATO should not fritter away what so many have given their lives for.
Wishes may not always come true, especially when the wicked witch's name is Vlad....

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Bob, Cocoa, FL — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:17:48 GMT

"Georgia has begun silly war. They have destroyed huge quantity of civilians of Abkhazia and Ossetia. Unless they can name these regions the?? It is a genocide." Thank you Svetlana, spoken by a true--if not ignorant of the bigger picture--Russian..

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Chris, CO — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 07:53:52 GMT

Why is it that In the US we feel a need to tell the rest of the world how it can and cannot do things. All this talk about what russia is afraid of seems almost like we are trying to find a reason that probably isn't there. As far as I can tell from reading all the articles about this, I can only say one thing. If the US recognizes and supports groups trying to break away from a country to be a democracy, then they must also support a break away that may not result in a democracy. Oh and the whole line from washington about how wars of aggression are no longer okay in the 21st century, I think they should look at their own policy in the past 8 years. People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Herman Kahn — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:30:10 GMT

The big picture is this: The U.S. trained and instigated Georgia into attacking South Ossetia. It is all part of Cheyneys divide and conquer plan or as the U.S. has coined in Iraq "Isolate, Engage, Build" but this time with a slight twist. Georgia has Isolated and damaged itself by forcing Engagement from Russia. Never fear the U.S. is here to help re-build Georgia and its pipeline all the way to the Baltic Sea. For Russia and the U.S. it's (good/bad cop) buisness as usual. Saakashvili got punked.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Ben Croft — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:07:51 GMT

British footballers would call Georgia's miss-timed adventure 'an own goal'. And seriously lacking, there was no 'Plan B', like lot's of Improvised Explosive Devices lined up along Georgian roads, plenty of infantry-held anti-tank missiles and anti-aircraft missiles. There is no excuse, these lessons are constantly being taught by part-time militants in restless places.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Max Bourne — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:02:16 GMT

Perhaps Russia knows something we don't, maybe someone might think to ask the FSB what is really going on.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mira, Sydney, NSW, Australia — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:05:56 GMT

I'm 20 years of age and I find it disappointing and frustrating when reading some of the comments left on this site. Clearly, many people have little or poor knowledge of anything to do with anything non-western, sorry scratch that, non-American. Russia is no longer a communist nation, Russia never really was, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics was. Russia today is capitalist, in fact, the highest concentration of billionaires living in one city in the world, are in Moscow. Pre-socialist (interesting how the word socialist is never used... communism seems to be so much more 'exciting'...) Russia produced some of the most influential and significant focuses within western education and culture... authors such as Vladimir Nabokov, Tolstoy, take your pick, are highly recognized as leaders of modernist literature, film makers like Eisenstein and Kuleshov are incredibly important, as well as photographers like Alexander Rodchenko. Russia as a new capitalist nation will rise higher than ever before. Russia will arguably be more capitalist now than the United States. Democracy is a load of shit and it serves simply as a veil to cover up the true intentions.

Of course Russia is involved here for oil and energy resources. But this is Eastern Europe. Not Western Europe and not any post-colonial country that happens to have risen swiftly within the past 200 years to world domination. Funny that the United States government and NATO are arguing for 'human rights'... I think this is positioned not only for US-led Western fight for power of energy resources but also to divert attention away from human rights abuses within Iraq and Guantanamo Bay, to another nation.

South Ossetia and Abkhazia have absolutely every right to become independent nations or to become part of Russia if they wish. If Kosovo can become an 'independent nation' then anything can. Another 'funny thing', if you will, is that during the 'independence of Kosovo' pro-Kosovo people were waving around Albanian flags, and the reason itself, Serbs 'slaughtered' and 'systematically killed' the 'Kosovar' population (which is why Serbia was bombed in 1999) however Kosovo now gains independence because the 'Kosovar' (Albanian Islamic) population outnumbers the Serbian (Orthodox Christian) population 10:1... not that the pool-fed public are going to notice any of these things...

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

phanidhar — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:26:55 GMT

the war was a big mistake by georgia and it envoked the russian bear,now we are facing the consequences of it

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Peter Ford, California, — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:16:53 GMT

I think Russia has it right. This is not fear of democracy. It is the fear that someone is sneaking up on them again to wipe out another 40 million of its citizens. Power to them for standing up to NATO and the fascist yanks.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Gerry, Scotland — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:23:25 GMT

Due to the western media we're all led to believe that Russia are the bad guys, when it's Georgia who were the aggressors. Once again the US are involved in affairs just for their own interests, but the bear will not be bullied, you can be certain of that. As Billy Connolly once said 'The desire to become a politician should bar you from ever becoming one'.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

larry powell, salisbury md — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:23:50 GMT

I have very much enjoyed this article and the further comments. I have learned a lot actually, for instance when all of this was going on i made several negative comments about Putin to a young friend in Belarus, i thought i recieved a cold response, now i know why.I firmly believe that we should leave the area alone and quit stirring the pot of war.We would certainly not stand for the same conditions in our backyards.We are wrong here..

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Peter Ford, California, — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:28:23 GMT

I think Russia has it right. This is not fear of democracy. It is the fear that someone is sneaking up on them again to wipe out another 40 million of its citizens. Lets be realistic about this. Georgia was a handpicked puppet takeover by the states to help insinuate itself into the the oilfields of the caucasions anyway.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Victor Pear, Tallinn Estonia — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:32:51 GMT

Russians ethnical sceme is: to awiden his territory
to fight naighbours, to grab their assets.
It is deeply in their character. You can´t play with them by our rules.
Only thing they are imposed upon - its power.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Yhos — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:44:55 GMT

I find it naive to say Russia is afraid of democratic neighbour. Russia has Finland and other democratic neighbors for long time so far. I watch CNN and BBC and it's all propoganda and what western politicians say is the trace of old stereotypes. I find it acme of hypocracy by US and EU to talk about territorial integrity, whilst they themselves invaded Iraq, Afghanistan and plan to destroy Iran. Besides, US has destroyed Iraq because of WMD which they didn't find but still bear no responsibility. Also, what about civilians killed everyday in those countries of Iraq and Afghanistan. Who gave them the right to do that. Yesterday I've read UN reported about 60 civilians killed in a US strike in Afghanistan, and 30 of them are kids, so who will take responsibility for that? Should US mind its own business then the world will be in peace.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Farooq, PAK — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:45:26 GMT

Kudos to Russia for doing the right thing; Georgia, a darling of the war-mongering Neocon establishment in the US but hardly a beacon of enlightened democracy, pushed the envelope a bit too far this time and got punished. I agree with many that the motives of Russia may go beyond saving citizens of S.Ossetia, but then the motives of Georgia were not exactly kosher by any standards. No country with any semblance of self-respect and power will tolerate mischief in its backyard. The very fact that the US Administration "abandoned" Georgia reflects the realization by the US that its ally was in the wrong.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Allen V.Cox Captain — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:49:54 GMT

USA have tried to apply their games into a region that has been russian forever? The world according to George bush and Tony Blair invadeded grabbed iraq "Bit Off a Little more than they can chew!All based on the lies that Saddam had weapons of mass Destruction now work out how many innnocent peoples lives ahve been lost for what "Oil" Maybe European Union should think of putting both Bush and Blair up before the war crimes in the Hague after all they duped the whole world? USA do not wish to take on Russia nor for that matter Iran Mr, Bush has lost face big time and Russia dont give a toss abour all the retoric!
"Times they are a Changing" and not for the better it would appear! USA needs war's Russia needs war's it's all good for Business.
Or are we all just too blind to see the foundations of what is being laid, How long did Nato or Europe for that matter! allow the mass slaughter of innocent people to go on in Yugoslavia, Do you think it was allowed due to the fact no oil was in these area's so killing and exterminatition was conducted on a grand Scale and little to nothing done to stop it! Who Cared These Break away areas deserve to be allowed to live in freedom not under the rule of thr Gun he who lives by the sword will surly die by it!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Don Klinestiver Milton WV — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:10:36 GMT

If the Vice President is assinaed in Georgia will we blame the Russians or a giant Neocon plot.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Minas Kanetos — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:16:23 GMT

Hi,
I was wondering about which democracy people in U.S. talk about, the moment when FBI can detain someone indefenitelly without pressing charges at all!

America is the country which has murdered most of half of its presidents, simply because they had differerent plans than CIA had.

Wherever on this planet there is dictatorship, it has been placed or supported by U.S. U.S. politicians have openly admitted to supporting the dictatorship in the 70'ies in my country, Greece.

How many times have I seen news in other news agencies, simply to discover that it has been "ignored" by american news media? How man

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mark Kuck, McGuffey, Ohio — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:59:11 GMT

Russia made a MAJOR mistake by doing this. This conflict will serve to entice NATO to add more allies in order to gain more forces and more launch points, as well as to preempt another Warsaw Pact threat. In addition, Western weapons systems have proven to be far superior to anything Russia has, and what do you think Georgia will rearm its forces with? Finally, Georgia now has a proven, direct threat to rally its people against and strong incentive to rebuild its military to specificly counter the Russian threat. I think Russia will end up regretting this quite a lot.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

E.M. Racine, WI — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:59:40 GMT

i see this blog as nothing but complete propoganda. Here i thought the U.S. was all about the right of the majority of the people in a region to choose for themselve's how they should be ruled and who their allie's will be. It seem's the U.S. only respect's that choice when the people happen to choose the 'american way'. Russia didn't impose independence upon the people in these region's,it simply recognized the choice of the majority of the people(strange ~ that sound's like democracy)As the front page article in today's Wall Street Journal indicate's the loyalty of the people in these region's to Russia goes back to the 1400's. The fact is the U.S. is not interested in any of these countries until Russia back's them,then all of a sudden they are a top priority. My opinion is this is a clear indication of the U.S.'s only real interest which is in expanding it's own sovereignty and attempting to dilute that of any possible rival.The cold war didn't really end i guess,it is alive and well in the mind's of U.S. leader's. They are not interested in world peace in any sense.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Evelyn S — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:06:40 GMT

funny. one of the posters tried to compare the US invasion of iraq to russia's invasion of georgia. i don't quite see them as the same. let's not forget that saddam broke 17 UN resolutions, and he was warned time & again to comply. he also would not cooperate w/the weapons inspectors. he defied pretty much the whole world, and it was time something was done. also, the us did not invade iraq alone. we just lead the movement & are sticking it out the longest. as for the russia/georgia issue, i'm not sure who's side i'm on. do the two areas want to be independent of georgia? if so, why shouldn't russia back them? maybe georgia isn't all the media makes it out to be, right? a lot more research should be done b4 we just chose to agree w/reporters. there are two sides to every issue; maybe even 3 here.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

arthur,toronto,canada — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:08:43 GMT

America is way too aggressive in foreign policy.
Why can't those people leave poor Russia alone?!
At least try to be sensitive on things that are sensitive to others.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Rick Mahaney Gulfport Ms. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:09:30 GMT

I must say that most of the comments made here have been just about how terrible the USA is and not about the subject itself...what the hell is wrong with you people...no democracy is perfect but it is better than the alternative.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

angel, New York City, NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:12:42 GMT

is the US really ready for another cold war?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Lucy, Washington, DC — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:56:34 GMT

That has got to be one of the best pieces of writing that I have ever read. What an excellent author. He needs to write a book or something, or be promoted. That is serious talent.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Max, Russia — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:14:38 GMT

Speaking about democracy. What about those Indian guys who announce their independence?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Joey Peelz NY — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:32:03 GMT

Interesting, I posted a message here last night around 9:30pm and it was "moderated" away. Perhaps because my message described the horrors that the Georgian Army has perpetrated upon it's own people.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Richard Fletcher — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:35:15 GMT

It seems that only the USA can determine which countries can be soverign...Serbia is not soverign therefore the winners of war can dictate the terms and conditions after the war. Since Albanians moved into this area of Kosovo, Bush thought it would be a good idea to give this area to them because he said they were the ethnic majority...Now this strange double standard has hit home...Ossetians and Abkazians do not want anything to do with Georgia and since they are an ethnic majority they want to be seperated from Georgia..these 2 countries with the aid of Russian military are the winners and have the right to dictate the terms and conditions after the war...after 3 days of intense bombing of Ossetia, what would have happended if Russia did not stop Georgia??..Mr. Suckassvilli thought he could pull off a USA style of invasion like in Iraq but as the world has witnessed he is a big loser...his watered down democracy allows all freedoms to be suspended, the oppostion to be arrested...it's really confusing to understand what the USA is supporting?? they ramble from 1 idea to the next trying to grasp at something that will be popular with public opinion and the press, like usual, has been pro-administration in their treatment of the war. It would be interesting for someone to do a background report of the events from the last demonstration in Georgia to expose the 2-faced policies of Mr. Suckassvilli

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

helen — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:43:40 GMT

the georgian president has killed many of civilians. i think the world should focus attention on this fact. european countries can't be US' puppet any more. they need to think on their own

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

J. Adams, Portland OR — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 14:51:41 GMT

There is a larger aspect to look at. Befor this conflict there have been rumors spreading from Russia of placing military forces in Cuba. For over a year now Russian Nuclear armed bombers are back in the skies 24 hrs a day, their nuclear armed subs are back on potrol in the arctic. Make no mistake, Russia is picking a fight. Forget about Iran, who doesn't have a single nuclear weapon as of yet, Russia has 10,000.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

vad — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:09:52 GMT

Russia is trying to get up from its knees. US will make sure it would not make it. We print the dollars, not russia. we can not loose cold war, we have a lot of paper to print the money on.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Barnabas Kiiza, Kampala, Uganda — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:26:22 GMT

I am not sure about the strategic importance (resources like oil, etc) that South Ossetia and Abkhazia hold for Georgia and NATO. It would be more prudent for the EU, USA, NATO to convince Georgia to let go of these two seemingly useless tiny pieces of territory in exchange for the Russians to GET OUT and STAY OUT of Georgia Proper. This ought to be followed by QUICK ACCEPTANCE of Ukraine, Georgia and other countries into NATO as well as erecting Anti-Ballistic Missile batteries there. Most people in this world keep hiding their heads in the sand over which 'world' offers the better opportunities. The "WEST" is where everybody tries to go in search of a better life. I don't see many 'westerners' fighting to go to study or settle in Russia or Belarus,etc. But I see many Russians, East Europians, Africans, Latin Americans, Asians, etc, fighting to go and study or settle in the "WEST".
Let Georgia shake off Abkhazia and Ossetia in exchange for joining NATO and "western prosperity" which 95 percent of the global world tries to aspire to and of course this truth is very, very BITTER.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

sodahead, — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:41:32 GMT

quite frankly I think there are other points of view. All over former Soviet Union there are so called Autonomus Regions. They were developed by the soviets to better control the numerous Countries they annexed. With our blessing during the 2nd WW. Now they don't want to be part of the countries they are in because they are Russians. This happens all over the place: Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia and so on. Question is from the very beggining these regions were settled with russian. they have a very strong, one might say even obssesive nationalism. Let's think about the future. There will be countries like georgia, ukraine moldova and other independent and inbetween some ridiculously small and stupid mini-republics with Russian bolsheviks. How would it be to have the Cubans in Florida requesting "independence" from the States just because they are concentrated in one area. And the Cuban government sending troops to help them. Its ridiculous. It is plain and simple Russian arrogance and frustrations that led to this situation. They feel they control enough of the energy to impose their own will without the EU interfering. And adding to that the plain and simple Iraq invasion and the Kosovo stupidity u have all the ingredients for a tough situation. Its time for everybody to start thinking before acting. And maybe just maybe ask the Russian why all the republics were so desperate to get rid of them. Probably because they were very "nicely" treated?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Patrick O'Donnell Green Bay Wisconsin USA — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:48:40 GMT

it comes down to russia is afraid its people will leave to other countrys to have freedom like usa. that is why you here so many russian brides. they want to escape their country for a better life.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Jean Pierre — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 15:51:34 GMT

The US broke all rules of the UN in dealing with Iraq, Yougoslavia and ...This they did in the 21st century. Let alone russia dealing with Georgia. Fear?No! Boldness and readyness to respond to any assail.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

P.S.ANISH KUMAR — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 07:53:11 GMT

DEAR ALL THERE MUST ALWAYS BE A BALANCE OF POWER IN THIS WORLD.RUSSIAN INFLUNCE HAS STOPPED THE ATTACK ON N.KOREA/IRAN BY U.S.A.
WE INDIANS CONGRATS AND SUPPORTS ONCE AGAIN RUSSAIN EMERGING AS THE COUNTER SUPERPOWER OF THE WORLD.DONT UNDERESTIMATE NEW SUPERPOWER AND THERE TRI TREATY BETWEEN RUSSIA,INDIA AND CHINA.LET WELCOME THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION EMERGING AGAIN AS SUPERPOWER TO COUNTER USA

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Bohdan Szejner, Kraków, Poland — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:14:04 GMT

Russia will always be Russia, a nation with the mentality of a bear. The bear is stupid, bold at times, always unpredictable. The only hope is a massive change from within. Either Russia learns to eat from the hands of well-wishing strangers, or Russia will be hinernating, isolated from the world!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Michael, Prague — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:15:35 GMT

I find it amazing and entertaining the variety of views that all act like Russia is a victim and everything is the fault of the West or the U.S. Pathetic apologists, all.

The Russian mentality is paranoid and aggressive, it always has been and always will be. They lack self-confidence unless they are stepping on someone and those emotions have been pent-up for a while and now it is releasing. Now they have a lot of oil and gas money and you think they will just be content if we are all nice to them? The West better grow a backbone or, turn around and bend over for the Russians. It will be a cold winter this year when they bring Europe to their knees as they turn off the gas to prove who is in charge. None of this should be a surprise, so - what are you going to do about it? It is almost autumn in Europe.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

KR, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:49:21 GMT

It's not surprising to me that the standard response from the Bush White House is to send Dick Cheney around to all of the other hot spots in the region. As someone else said here, the world loves black and white, good and evil, right and wrong.

Now we are put in a situation largely of our own making, due to the Bush administration's repeated deafness on issues opposed by Russia such as recognizing Chechnya, Kosovo, our unilateral action in Iraq (coalition of the WILLING?), and now signing an anti-missile agreement with Poland.

Condoleezza Rice supposedly is an expert in Soviet-era Russia. It would appear that her goal is to re-create it from the ashes of failed foreign policy. Russia warned us not to support Chechnyan independence, we ignored it. They warned us that we would pay a price. For as much as we talked about Russia as a partner, we consistently ignored their wishes and daftly stepped on the hornet nest.

This conflict, which we are now placing ourselves in the middle of, is of our own making. Fortunately, with our armed forces stretched so thin you can see through them like mylar, we have absolutely no ability to support another war. And has the administration realized that this is the OTHER NUCLEAR POWER from the cold war, even yet?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Frank L, Malaysia — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:32:17 GMT

The first part of article make sense, but suddenly the author dream of a simple answer for the complicated problem. Putin is afraid democracy? He got near 100% vote from Russian in the last election. He was their hero. He saved Russia from bankrupcy but getting back control on their precious resources.
All this tension was simply due to greed to want cheap oil from Russia.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Alex — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:59:39 GMT

See who is talking about democracy. As of today United Kingdom is constitutional monarchy - not democracy.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Alex — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:18:27 GMT

What I really fail to see is how US, having military advisers in Georgia, spy satellites etc can claim it has nothing to do with it. The only way I can see it happend is that US promised support for its Georgian puppet thinking Russia is not going to respond militarily. When Georgian army, armed and trained by US, got bloody nose in S. Ossetia, US offered no military backing and just started crying "disproportionate responce". What would be a proportionate response then, bombing Georgia for weeks, then organising a revolution there? Whom are kidding, mr. Bush?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Mike, El Centro, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:49:43 GMT

To the comment about the CIA killing half our Presidents here's a history lesson.

42 Presidents since out founding

Presidents asasinated:

Abraham Lincoln 1865
James Garfield 1881
William Mckinley 1901
John F. Kennedy 1963

The CIA was founded in 1947. So unless the CIA has a time travel machine the could not be involved in any assasination prior to John F. Kennedy. That's assuming they were involved with the Kennedy assasination which I highly doubt!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

sergei m, nyc, ny — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:52:05 GMT

How many of you aware that new born democracies like Ukraine and Estonia for example treat their "war veterans" who fought on Nazi side during the World War Two like national hero’s?
It’s been like that for quite a few years now and no one seems to care.
What kind of therapy this world needs to finally wake up?

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Sophia Carola, Italy — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 19:45:33 GMT

Has anyone here writing this comments ever met any Georgian in real life of visited the country? If you have, then you'll know that Georgians love life, they love their neighbors and they only have friends not enemies. In former Soviet Union Georgia was known with their hospitality, food and warmth of the Georgian people. I am very certain that if you ever visit Georgia you won’t be able to say anything negative about it’s people and the country and you will know whose fault was this war.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Carol H StL — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:18:26 GMT

I am hoping that Barack Obama can use a U.S.diplomacy relation with Russia that is completely different than the street alley fighter, Wild West diplomacy of the Bush-Cheney administration. John McCain, like Bush-Cheney, is just waiting for Russia to tweek his nose. C'est la guerre!!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Jyotsna — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 04:13:24 GMT

The war in Georgia has exposed the dangerous overextension of U.S. power, it's eve growing nasty habit to boss over everyone in the world.Its still offered "no" rational explanation as to why it has to overthrew the Saddam rule (WMD, nukes, ethnic hatred all lies), did the peoples of Iraq asked for salvation to US?? in fact Iraq is even more dangerous than in presence of Saddam, and US has no right to ruin a country. Why US allowed Israel to attack all the way (without shouting for an immediate cease fire as its crying now for Russia)to Lebanon? Arent innocent peoples killed there ?? If the same US cried so much when Moscow wanted to make a base at Cuba, why dont they accept that Moscow will also shout when US wants to make it at Polland? The Biggest problem of US if that it interferes in everyone else buissness and it lives with a false philosophy that what it does should be accepted by everyone in this world, no matter what it does ... and to me thats a perfect example of DICTATORSHIP (pity US which peaches DEMOCRACY to everyone)... thats a shame!

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

ss, Kazakhstan — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 19:41:52 GMT

Saakashvili's not measured and foolish war compaign came to surprise for US and put a threat on US military plans in the region. Russians destroyed all military bases and military airdromes which US were preparing for their future war with Iran. That's why US launched an angry media pressure on Russia. So now US must to consider whether to through another billion to rebuild everything or abandon plans. If they choose first they must be very cautios that russians will closely watch them and may easily blame them for arming georgians again. So in my opinion Saakashvili made a huge blow for US and will be eliminated quiet soon. Bye Misha

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

arnie lerma — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 15:03:06 GMT

Russia had no choice but to defend passport carrying russian citizens being shelled by George Bush's man in Georgia.

The price of telling ones citizens LIES is an apparency of support for more war.

In every 'war' the guys in the foxholes on the ground both just want to get back to their families alive.

The only people who profit from wars are those who craft tools for killing humans.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Jeffersonian, CA, San Francisco, — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 21:26:23 GMT

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe has accumulated evidence pointing to "numerous wrong decisions" made by Georgian leaders that led to a military crisis with Russia, Der Spiegel said on Saturday.

In a report to be published in its Monday (I guess this week or next) edition, OSCE military observers in the Caucasus described detailed planning by Georgia to move into South Ossetia which contributed to the crisis, the German magazine said.

The report also backed up Russian claims that the Georgian offensive was already in full swing by the time Russian troops and armored vehicles entered the Roksky Tunnel, on the border with Russia and South Ossetia, to protect its peacekeepers and the civilian population.

The OSCE report also contains suspected war crimes committed by Georgians, who ordered attacks on sleeping South Ossetian civilians.

Georgia attacked South Ossetia on August 8...not Russia...Saakshvilly lied to Americans and Europeans 100%.

Georgian conflict reveals Moscow’s biggest fear

Geoff Angelo, Edison, NJ — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:43:43 GMT

I can't believe my eyes! I just read the news about the billion in aid to Georgia. With our deficit as high as it is, our leaders continue to pay out billions to other countries instead of buidling our infastructure at home. That billion should go to New Orleans- or bridges, or interstate highways, or tax relief. Why must our taxes continue to fund other countries?? I need our streets paved and the school taxes lowered. This billion could help the States by subsidizing some of that. Where is this money coming from? Bush and Cheney should sell their houses and empty their bank accounts and contribute their own money.
At a time when our country is crumbling, enconomy is low and a city drowns, we give away our tax dollars to other countries First!

I'm really disgusted with our political leadership. They don't have to balance any books like the rest of use. If I spent mony I didn't have, I would loose everything. And at this level of spending, so will this country.

Eventually, we won't have any more money....and we'll be in a depression.