Exercises in Translation

Public Gathering Declares Constitutional Changes "Untrustworthy"

2010-11-25T06:52:00.004-05:00

სახალხო კრებამ საკონსტიტუციო ცვლილებებს უნდობლობა გამოუცხადა

Gathered before the Parliament building, the Public Gathering declared the October 2010 constitutional changes "untrustworthy."

The motion, which actor Gogi Kavtaradze announced before the crowd, was passed by the delegates unanimously. According to Gogi Kavtaradze, the people have rejected the October 2010 constitutional changes.

In his words, these changes do not reflect the interests of the people and that these changes were adopted without the participation of the people.

Leaders of the "National Forum" and the "Conservatives" Already Before Parliament

2010-11-25T06:35:00.000-05:00

"ეროვნული ფორუმისა" და "კონსერვატორების" ლიდერები უკვე პარლამენტის წინ არიან

Opposition party leaders have already begun to gather before the Parliament building. Participants in the Public Gathering [also translated "Public Assembly"] have been joined by Zviad Dzidziguri, leader of the Conservative Party, and members of his party, and have also been joined by leaders of the "National Forum" and other political activists. The party which initiated the gathering expects other parties to join.

Everything is ready for the official start of the Public Gathering in front of Parliament. The flow of people is increasing little by little. Territory stretching from the Student-Youth Palace to the First Public School is overflowing with people.

Meanwhile, the registration of delegates continues and already several thousand delegates have been registered.

Rustaveli Avenue Shut Down

2010-11-25T05:59:00.001-05:00

რუსთაველის გამზირი გადაიკეტა

Rustaveli Avenue has been shut down. The enormous influx of people from West Georgia has shut down the main avenue in Tbilisi. In the last few minutes, representatives from Khelvachauria, Khulo, Shuakhevi, Kedi, and all three of Guria's regions have joined the People's Gathering (or "Public Assembly") on Rustaveli Avenue and in doing so, have shut down traffic on Rustaveli.

According to the People's Gathering's initiator, Irakli Batiashvili, they are readying themselves for a drawn-out political battle and that they do not intend to retreat.

"What this public gathering will lead to depends on the people," noted Batiashvili.

The official start time for the demonstration is at 15:00 in front of the Parliament building.

Territory stretching from the Student-Youth Palace to the First Public School is packed with protesters.

Beginning November 9, Only Those Carrying "Form 9" Will be Allowed Entrance into Akhalgori

2010-11-09T13:23:00.012-05:00

8 ნოემბრიდან ახალგორის ოკუპირებულ რაიონში შესვლა მხოლოდ ე.წ “ფორმა ცხრით” იქნება შესაძლებელი

Expressnews.ge

Beginning November 9, only those carrying "Form 9" will be allowed to enter the occupied region of Akhalgori. The document is written in Russian and indicates the personal identification number issued to citizens of the Tskhinvali region [i.e., South Ossetia--RE].

The document will be used until the end of they year. Beginning January, 2011, so-called Ossetian passports will be issued.

The separatists require that in exchange for receiving "Form 9," recipients will be required to renounce their Georgian citizenship and surrender their Georgian identity cards.

No one will be allowed into the region without proper documentation. Meanwhile, the separatists are planning to change the name of Akhalgori to Leningori.

Sacrifices for Parliament

2009-12-23T12:08:00.002-05:00

21/12/09--Resonance Daily
Sacrifices for Parliament
Akaki Bobokhidze: “No one will stand in the way of the construction of the parliament building in Kutaisi”

By: Giorgi Putkaradze

As a result of the sacrifices made by mother and daughter, Eka Tsutskhvashvili and young Nino Jincharadze, up to ten people have been arrested, the governor of Imereti [of which Kutaisi is the capital] has been sacked and the president is horrified; however one thing will remain unchanged: the dismantling of the victory memorial and the construction of the parliament building in Kutaisi.

Two days ago, the deceased girl’s father, Soso Jincharadze, arrived at the scene of the tragedy pleading desperately, “They killed my child. What can help me?” Just as Soso’s child cannot be returned, neither will the fact that “no one will stand in the way of the construction of the parliament building in Kutaisi” be changed. Those were the words of parliamentary majority member Akaki Bobkhidze, one of the chief proponents of relocating Parliament to Kutaisi, who is paying close attention to accusations coming from the public in the wake of the tragedy.

On December 19, at approximately 16:00, Merab Berdzenishvili’s [WWII] victory monument, located in the residential area surrounding the auto-factory, was demolished. Minutes later, word spread throughout the city that the demolition had claimed a victim. It was later learned that young Nino Jincharadze died at the scene and that her mother, Eka Tsutskhvashvili, died at the hospital.

Several other residents near the memorial were wounded and were treated at the scene by emergency crews.

But the dismantling of the memorial began on December 12. The site of the new parliamentary building was marked out, and, as the news media would later learn from the workers on site, the date of the demolition was to be December 21, the president’s birthday. But supposedly due to the plans of political and non-governmental organizations to construct a human chain around the memorial, the dismantling process was hastened.

According to “The New Gazette” [„ახალი გაზეთი“], law-enforcement officers appeared in the residential area surrounding the auto-factory on December 19 at around 14:00. They warned residents in the area that they needed to evacuate their homes immediately. At 16:00, SakPetkMretsvi, LLC, demolished the 27 meter-high concrete structure (what was left of the “victory monument” after a week of dismantling). The force of the explosion sent chunks of concrete flying some hundreds of meters in the direction of the residential area.

“When they began the evacuations, they removed us from our apartments saying, ‘the demolition is going to happen and you need to get out in the streets.’ We moved away from the apartments and ran towards the ‘barracks.’ At that moment, the explosion occurred. Those poor folks who were in the courtyard by the apartment building—that’s where the girl was standing when the rock hit her in the head and killed her. Is our government happy now? They don’t care, their kids didn’t die! This is simply destruction for destruction’s sake—what trouble did the monument ever cause?” said several eyewitnesses to the newspaper.

“I was coming in from the city and the police wouldn’t let me go to my home. I wanted to pick up a few things. At that moment, the explosion occurred and when I arrived at the scene of bloodied people on the ground I discovered that my husband was among them,” said the wife of Irakli Jincharadze who was taken to the hospital.

Emergency crews first transported the wounded to the auto-factory’s hospital, and only later were they taken to the West Georgian National Center of Interventional Medicine. Nino Jincharadze would have been taken to the children’s hospital but it was too late to save her.

Local journalists quote eyewitnesses as saying that following the explosion, they were asked by police officers to leave the area with all haste as a second explosion was imminent. According to eyewitnesses, the police wanted to empty the area so that they could hide the child’s body.

[Second half of translation to come]

Bitsadze says survived an assasination attempt by Saakashvili, "one more minute and it would have turned out very badly"

2009-10-30T23:22:00.006-04:00

ბიწაძე ამბობს, რომ სააკაშვილის ბრძანებით დაგეგმილ თავდასხმას გადაურჩა "წუთიც და იქ ძალიან ცუდი ფაქტი მოხდებოდა"

From Georgian daily "Rezonansi," by Tamta Karchava

Badri Bitsadze [former Chief of Border Police and husband of opposition leader Nino Burjanadze] accuses the government authorities for making an attempt on his life. According to Bitsadze, on October 27, after leaving TV company "Maestro," his car was followed by three black SUVs. The cars stopped by Vakhushti Bridge and were preparing to stage an incident, according to Bitsadze, when he made the decision to return to "Maestro." Bitsadze was a guest on "Cell #5" [an opposition TV talk show starring Giorgi Gachechiladze, famous musician and brother of opposition leader Levan Gachechiladze, who has sworn to stay in his "cell" while Saakashvili remains president of Georgia]. The main topic of discussion concerned the government's hand in the bombing of Tskhinavli and the current situation in Pankisi Gorge.

Badri Bitsadze: At 12:30, I left TV company "Maestro." The moment I set foot out of theat studio, three black SUVs began to tail me. They tried to stage an incident at the start of Vakhushti Bridge.

Rezonanshi: Why do you think they were tailing you?

BB: One more minute and it would have turned out very badly. Two cars were in front of us, one in back, but we knew something was up and we turned around. The cars scattered--that's always a sure sign. I know Saakashvili all too well and most likely, after hearing what I had to say that night, he issued an order for me to be punished.

R: What was it that you said that angered the authorities?

BB: I said the truth, about what I know, and what I have seen with my own eyes. I talked about Tskhinvali and also Pankisi. I talked about the possibility of terrorists crossing into the Pankisi Gorge. As for Tskhinvali, I said that the war could have been avoided if Saakashvili weren't president, and I know that this angered him. I said that Saakashvili was preparing for this war.

R: Did you confront them?

BB: No.

R: Why not?

BB: Because there were two police patrols lying in ambush and they were keeping an eye on the scene. They know that I have the right to carry a gun and that I'm a more than qualified to handle it. That's why they want to shoot me. For them, the life of a person is nothing. They would kill one of their hired men and then blame it on me. That's what they wanted to do this time, but it didn't work out. The two cars which were driving in front of me blocked the bridge, the third was behind me. At that moment, I made the decision not to continue and turned around and headed back to the TV studio. It seems that they became confused. It took them a long time to decide what to do. . They came back for me, but by then I was already in the TV studio.

R: When you got back to the TV studio, they came back for you?

BB: Yes. They came up to the TV studio, but there were people waiting for them. They realized that it wasn't going to work out and they left. I want to tell these people that it would be best for them to forget about shadowing me.

R: Approximately how many people were in the car?

BB: It had tinted windows and I couldn't see if they were masked or not. In the two cars in front, there were four people in each. I don't know how many people were in the car behind me. I'm certain that they would have been armed. I know Saakashvili's character, and while he was watching the broadcast, I know that he gave the order.

R: What order did he give?

BB: An order for my punishment, of course.

One hundred meters from Trinity Cathedral

2009-10-27T01:18:00.009-04:00

[The following is my incomplete translation of the most recent cover article from Asaval-Dasavali. It concerns the recent scandal involving disparaging comments made about Georgian Patriarch Ilia II. The title "One hundred meters from Trinity [Sameba] Cathedral" is a reference to the Presidential Palace located near the Patriarch's primary place of worship. The beginning of this article promises an interesting read... The rest of the translation will come in pieces throughout the week--check back often!--Ryan]

სამების ტაძრიდან ას მეტრში

It’s 11:30 at night in the Avlabari District. Mikheil Saakashvili is pacing back and forth in his office. Both anger and despair are written across his face, and every once in a while he casts a hopeless glance towards his two advisers, Nodar Grigalashvili and Van Bayburt, who are fidgeting in their leather armchairs and casting furtive looks at Saakashvili’s desk. A rather large ashtray sits between them as does a television remote, and like two birds afraid that they will be struck by either object, neither dares to fly away from the leader.

Each time the restless Saakashvili nears his desk, Grigalashvili and Baiburt feel death’s grip tightening, thinking that now’s the moment that he’s going to make a fist or seize the ashtray or remote and come after us. True, these two have nothing to do with Saakashvili’s current rage, but when Saakashvili is angry, does he distinguish the guilty from the innocent?

Only when Saakashvili storms out of his office into his sitting room and stands directly beneath the large chandelier do Nodar and Van breathe a sigh of relief. The advisers’ chests loosen a bit. We saved the ashtray, they think to themselves.

“Did you hear what he said? Oh, why did Ilia II do this to me?! As if the Tagliavini report weren’t enough, now I’ve got to deal with this? Who is this guy, who is Ilia II…? I’ll see to it that he’s put into his place. I must, I must! What am I going on about! I won’t have him…” So distressed is Saakashvili that even his speech fails him.

“What are we going to do now? His words could be serious trouble. The people will pay close attention to what he says, for we all know how these people wait eagerly for each and every one of his words!” says Nodar Grigalashvili, avoiding the eyes of his boss.

“Van, what do you say? What do you think?” Saakashvili asks Bayburt. “How do we silence this man… how do we cover up what he said? How do we make sure that they don’t heed his comments and are instead distracted by something else?”

“What do I know, Misha, sir, what do I know? This man is the Patriarch, not just some nobody, Misha, sir. As for what we should do with him, what do I know?! He’s the Patriarch. He has a lot of authority, and should anything arise, the people will protect him, they will stand by his side! Misha, sir, what should I tell you!” says Bayburt, who also looks away from Saakashvili. He is staring at Nodar’s shoes. On one shoe, the presidential adviser has a loose strap; the other is fine—the strap has broken off entirely and has been replaced by a cord.

The scene is a comic one, but it is no time to laugh when the boss is angry.

“Nodar, what do you say? What should we do? We need to do something, that’s for sure, that way I can’t be stopped! Who does Ilia II think he is? To me, he is nobody. To me, he is not the Patriarch, and no one is. I’ll put him in his plae. Nodar, what should we do?” asks Saakashvili.

“What can I tell you, Misha, what can I tell you, my friend, what do I know? I’m…as Ilia Chavchavadze once wrote, 'I’m simply the man in the middle, sometimes of the earth, sometimes of the sky.'"

“Eh, Nodarik, it’s not 'sometimes of the sky, sometimes of the earth,' but 'I’m neither of the sky nor earth.' Moreover, it wasn’t Ilia Chavchavadze but Akaki Tsereteli!” interrupts Van Bayburt, catching Grigalasvhili’s mistake.

[More to come of this dramatization...]

Now offering translation services...

2009-10-23T18:01:00.002-04:00

Many people come to this site looking for Russian or Georgian-to-English translation. I've now decided to make my services available for pretty much free. Just send me what you want translated and I'll get back to you. I'll translate short documents (less than one page) for free--but if you really like the service, always feel free to make a donation!

Kitsmarishvili article done

2009-10-11T03:00:00.001-04:00

Please read the post below to read the completed translation of Erosi Kitsmarishvili's interview with Georgian newspaper Asaval-Dasavali regarding the Tagliavini report.

Former Georgian Ambassador to Russia on Tagliavini Report

2009-10-07T01:09:00.006-04:00

[Edit: the translation is complete]

[The following is my translation (from Georgian) of Erosi Kintsamarishvili's interview with Georgian newspaper Asavali-Dasavali.]

Erosi Kitsmarishvili, Georgia’s last ambassador to Russia [there are currently no diplomatic relations between the two countries following the August 2008 war], is the only person who dared to state openly at a meeting of a temporary parliamentary investigative commission that the August war was started by Saakashvili. Today, Kintsmarishvili says that the Tagliavini commission’s findings correspond precisely with his conclusions and that this is Europe’s verdict on Saakashvili’s government:

EK: The Tagliavini commission gave its unequivocal evaluation of last August’s war. Word for word, it agreed with what I said before the parliamentary commission: the war was started by Georgia when it stormed Tskhinvali on August 7, but that the Russians were provoking the situation in the period leading up to it. These are not only the findings of the Tagliavini commission, but also that of “Rueters”, “The Associated Press”, “The New York Times”, and the “BBC”. There aren’t more authoritative media sources than these. Yes, the Tagliavini commission was the sole and most authoritative commission. There will never be a commission of higher authority on this matter; therefore, its findings carry a lot of weight. Of course, it does not have any legal power, it cannot hold anyone responsible. It only provides facts, and in this case, it determined that Georgia started the war. The international community has pronounced Saakashvili as a man who comitted war crimes and who on the basis of these findings has found himself isolated. Now, the main thing is that we must act in such a way that the country itself won’t become isolated.

A-D: Saakashvili is still telling us that this is a diplomatic victory for Georgia and a defeat for Russia.

Saakashvili’s statements in the last few days are only meant for internal consumption. Outside the country, no one listens to him any longer as the world’s best experts have pronounced that Saakashvili started the war, and this pronouncement is no longer up for debate. The only thing Saakashvili is concerned with now is making sure that inside the country, the people don’t have an alternate opinion. But they can’t change what the report says. Now, the real question is what the people think about this man, thanks to whom we lost new territories, we now have tens of thousands of refugees, and thanks to his doing, has brought back the Russian army and plans of military bases to the South Caucasus. In order to figure out what the people are thinking, we first need to supply them with accurate information.

Your newspaper, Asavali-Dasavali, reaches nearly every household, and that’s why I want to take this opportunity to tell all households: what you hear from the government, and what you’re being told through TV—it’s all lies. The truth is what’s written here, not only here, but also what’s being said in serious publications around the world: Saakashvili started the war. Now, I ask you, the Georgian people, what do you think? Do you want a new war with Russia? Is there any prospect of victory in such a war? Do we want to clash with the Abkhaz and Ossetian people? Do we want a government which hurled our country into catastrophe, has become isolated and now wants to bring the country down with it?

Do you know what this means? It means that our families, spouses, will be forced to go abroad in search of work, without rights, to work in slave-like conditions, that the problems of unemployment, lack of rights, and poverty will deepen. This is the reality that faces us if we don’t express our position with regard to this man, Mikheil Saakashvili.

Mr. Kintsmarishvili, you were saying that Saakashvili had been preparing for this military campaign for a long time.

In 2004, when Saakashvili peacefully, gently—you could even say without a hitch—managed to effect a regime change in Ajaria, he came under the illusion that he could resolve the Abkhazian and Ossetian problems just as easily. That’s when he began the preparations. I believed that it was possible to repair relations with the Ossetians and the Abkhazians by peaceful means, but that this would require a healthy economy, the successful development of the country, and the establishment of soft, warm relations, but Saakashvili did not heed this advice and immediately opted for military confrontation.One of the reasons I left Georgia was the failure to agree on this issue. The first attempt at a military campaign came in June 2004 and ended in an absolute fiasco. Following this, Saakashvili made up his mind to go to war. While this was going on, I believed that I could change his mind. For this reason, I returned to Georgia and once again stood by his side. I agreed to the ambassadorship to Russia for the very reason that I knew that he was preparing for a conflict with Russia, and I believed that I could help achieve a peaceful outcome with regards to relations with Russia.

Was there really the possibility that this war could have been avoided?

I can confidently say that this war could have been avoided from the very beginning. But from 2004 until the events of August 2008, Saakashvili’s sights were set on only one thing: he wanted to restore Georgia’s territorial integrity by military operation. He said that war was how we should re-unite the country, and off he went. He shamefully lost the war, killed innocents, while he himself had his luggage packed should he have needed to flee. And after the war he comes out and says that whatever the situation, he would fire shots again when he feels like it. This begs the question of the Georgian people: Are we where we want to be?

In your opinion, we aren’t where we should be, that we still have a long road ahead of us?

The man is saying that he’s going to bring out the guns again. Where he’ll shoot and in what manner, God knows!

By the way, Okruashvili said in an interview that Saakashvili often told him that had dreams of appearing before The Hague Tribunal. Do you think this dream will come true?

Oddly enough, today Saakashvili is saying that Medvedev and Putin should appear before The Hague Tribunal. It’s classic Freudian psychology—he’s talking about what should happen to others when he himself should be afraid, and it’s true that this fear that he might appear before The Hague has been bothering him for quite some time. Saakashvili has been seriously worried for a long time now that he would become blamed and that this would land him before The Hague. The “Economist” wrote: “If justice were the ultimate goal, Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's president, and Mikheil Saakashvili, his Georgian counterpart, should appear together in court in The Hague.” However, I think that Saakasvhili shouldn’t appear before The Hague; rather, he should appear before a court of the Georgian people, or rather a court of the Georgian, Abkhazian, and Ossetian people.

You’re saying that changes are necessary. How do you see these changes being realized?

First of all, the opposition across the board needs to realize that the people deserve the honest truth. The propaganda machine is running at full tilt, and accurate information about the Tagliavini report is not being delivered to the people. Therefore, this information needs to be brought to each and every household. Afterwards, a poll should be taken, and if we see that the people’s attitude agrees, for example, with mine, then we need to utilize all forms of pressure on the government. Let me reiterate, all forms of pressure so that things are taken step-by-step.

How likely is it that the people’s efforts no longer matter, and that instead, the international community will demand Saakashvili to leave?

That’s out of the question. The international community has already told us that the problem is this man, but they also told us that whoever killed the dog should also carry it away. I’ve never seen a clearer message.

Europe told us: “We said that this man is guilty, and now you are free to make of that what you will.” That is, it’s up to us now if we should keep Saakashvili or let him go. If we can’t succeed [in letting Saakashvili go], then a very depressing future awaits us!

Interview with Nino Burjanadze (Asaval-Dasavali)

2009-08-18T11:17:00.009-04:00

The following is my translation (from the original Georgian) of Burjanadze's interview with Georgian newspaper Asaval-Dasavali published in the August 10 issue.

Last August, Saakashvili asked to meet with you a few days before the war. Did he ask you for your opinon on any issues?

Yes, I did meet with Saakashvili on August 3, 2008. Apparently, he had already taken a decisive step and wanted to see what my reaction would be! This was the first time that he had asked to see me after my depature from the government. At that time, tensions were high in the country and that's why I agreed to meet with Saakashvili.

I remember it perfectly. On August 3, a Sunday, at 5 o'clock I entered the residence. We talked for almost an hour and twenty minutes, and I told him very clearly that a war with Russia would only end in catastrophe for Georgia. I told him that there was no question that Putin would get involved in this war and that there was no question that Georgia would lose this war!

Who else attended the meeting?

No one, we were alone.

And what did Saakashvili tell you?

He said that we would take Tskhinvali in one night, that's when I told him that things wouldn't turn out the way he planned and also that the capture of Tskhinvali would not solve the problem! I also told him that even if we get South Ossetia back by military means, we would lose Abkhazia for good, and Saakashvili agreed with me!

During this meeting, Saakashvili also promised me that he would not start a war and that he would not be drawn into any military operation, but...

Besides this meeting, I remember other meetings at the very same Avlabari residence, at his Tserovani residence, and in his office where I often had very heated debates with Saakashvili and his inner circle. They would flex their muscles and say that the Russians have rusty tanks, that we would win the war, that we would crush them and advance all the way to Moscow!

We know that there was a military operation in Samachablo [a region that now lies entirely in South Ossetia], but why did we lose Kodori Gorge [aka Kodori Valley, now part of Abkhazia]? How do you explain the surrender of Kodori?

Just now, on August 7, I was listening to Saakashvili's statement where he said he was planning on going to Kodori Gorge, but that had he gone, he wouldn't have had a phone and wouldn't have been able to call foreign countries. What century does he think this is? What about satellite phones? Or does the president only use landlines? Either he was lying or he was once again demonstrating his unprofessionalism.

The abandonment of Kodori Gorge was planned! No one could have taken Kodori Gorge. It didn't remain part of Georgia's jurisidiction after the war in the 90s by chance. Kodori is a naturally impregnable fortress and no one could have bombed it!

The order to abandon Kodori was a criminal one and whoever gave that order should be sent to prison. I am convinced that the time will come!

It doesn't matter if it will happen in a year from now, or in ten, Burjanadze or someone else will be in power, and whoever was responsible for the surrender of Kodori Gorge will be sent to prison.

Someone must be held responsible for this war! Someone must be held responsible for our boys who ran half-naked from Kodori while we were out standing on Rustaveli, singing, and not telling the people that at this very moment we were losing Kodori Gorge!

This is a mockery which can never be forgiven! When this man asks for forgiveness, God will not forgive him!

[Note: this is not the first time that Burjanadze has referred to this meeting before the war. She mentioned it in an interview just a few weeks after the war.]

Nino Burjanadze: Saakashvili believed that he could take Tskhinvali in one night

2009-08-11T04:06:00.008-04:00

Нино Бурджанадзе: Саакашвили уверял, что захватит Цхинвали за одну ночь

[You can also read the translation from the original Georgian here.]

One of the leaders of the Georgian opposition, ex-Speaker of Parliament Nino Burjanadze, told the Tbilisi daily newspaper "Asaval-Dasavali" that Mikheil Saakashvili shared his war plan with her on August 3. "He said that we would take Tskhinvali in one night," said Burjanadze.

Burjanadze formally resigned from her position on April 28, 2008. Her meeting with Saakashvili in August was the first since the two leaders of the "Rose Revolution" had separated. At that time, Burjanadze had not gone over to the opposition since she still wished to consult with her former ally.

"We met at his residence on August 3, on Sunday, at 5 pm. We talked for close to an hour and twenty minutes," recalls Burjanadze. "I told him that a war with Russia would only end in catastrophe for Georgia. Saakashvili still believed that we would take Tskhinvali in one night. I replied that that wouldn't happen. Secondly, that the capture of Tskhinvali does not mean a resolution to our problems. I also told him that even if we get South Ossetia back by military means, we would lose Abkhazia for good. Saakashvili acknowledged this."

Burjanadze recalled several more conversations and arguments with the president and his inner circle: "They said that the Russians have rusty tanks, that we would win the war, that we would crush them and advance all the way to Moscow."

The interview turned to the topic of scandal. Burjanadze told of how the Georgian secret service controlled the meeting of opposition leaders with US vice president Joseph Biden.

"I have no doubts that the meeting was recorded," she said. "All diplomats in Georgia know that their phones are tapped, that their movements are traced. I know that one diplomat of high rank, upon discovering that he was being followed, filed a protest against deputy minister of foreign affairs Giga Bokeria."

(Photo: Reuters)

Duma Deputy: Saakashvili hopes to survive the economic crisis through provocations

2009-08-05T04:13:00.006-04:00

Саакашвили надеется пережить острый экономический кризис за счет оплаченных силовых провокаций - депутат Госдумы РФ

Georgia's armed provocations are just another way for Mikheil Saakashvili to ask for money from the international community, first and foremost, from the US, believes Ruslan Kondratov, member of the Committee for International Affairs of the Russian State Duma. According to an IA Regnum correspondent, on August 5, Kondratov stated that he was certain that in the next few days, the situation at the Georgian-Abkhazian border could become very complicated. "Today, South Ossetia closed its border with Georgia, and the Ossetian's fear is quite justified--after last year's monstrous demarche, any kind of provocation can be expected from Saakashvili, including the use of military force. Now, the Georgian president needs to increase his political weight, and the anniversary of the military conflict in the Caucasus region is a serious occasion," noted the parliamentarian.

"In addition, Georgia is in the midst of an economic crisis, and armed provocations against South Ossetia and Russia are another way for Saakashvili to ask for money from the international community, first and foremost, the US," said the Duma deputy. "Tbilisi understands that if they can get the Russian army to use force against Georgia, this could be a trump card in their foreign policy game. Therefore, the main task of our border forces is not to permit such events to unfold. Nevertheless, since the end of July, South Ossetia and Georgia have reported provocations on the border," said Kondratov.

South Ossetia closed its border with Georgia. The Leader of the republic, Eduard Kokoity, explained that the move was necessary as provocations from Tbilisi have increased in the last few days.

In addition, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov characterized Saakashvili's request that American observers be included in the EU Mission as an attempt to destabilize the situation in the South Caucasus and to provoke a conflict between the US and Russia.

South Ossetia closes border with Georgia

2009-08-05T03:47:00.004-04:00

Южная Осетия закрыла границу с Грузией

Early this morning, South Ossetia closed its border with Georgia. The Leader of the republic, Eduard Kokoity, explained that the move was necessary as provocations from Tbilisi have increased in the last few days.

Patrols have been reinforced, as has the 4th Russian Military Base, which is deployed in South Ossetia. Members of the Air Force and the Air Defense of the Northern Caucasus Military District have been placed on high alert.

According to the Ministry of Defense, "the Russian armed forces will stop any possible agression from Tbilisi in its infancy."

Ruling party on Saakashvili's meeting with Pinchuk: No comment

2009-07-06T07:29:00.002-04:00

სააკაშვილ-პინჩუკის შეხვედრაზე მმართველი პარტია კომენტარს არ აკეთებს

Tamta Karchava

[This is a translation of an article published in Georgian daily "Resonance" (Rezonansi) on July 4; I have not been able to find an online edition of this article. If I do, I will provide a link to it.]

Nino Burjanadze's meeting with Viktor Pinchuk, son-in-law of former Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma, is in the news again. The authorities claim that Burjanadze sought funding from Pinchuk for large-scale protests. Burjanadze has denied the accusation and is saying that a few months ago, Pinchuk invited Saakashvili to a Paul McCartney concert in Kiev, and that the President of Georgia accepted his offer.

Neither the President's administration nor Parliament has made any comment on Saakashvili's stay at Pinchuk's home. Member of the ruling party Murtaz Zodelava did not even wish to speak with us on the matter.

Zurab Melikishvili, one of the leaders of the ruling party, offers this piece of advice to Burjanadze: tell the public about this secret meeting, which the ex-Speaker of Parliament [i.e. Burjanadze] says was a "personal meeting."

"It would be better for Mrs. Burjanadze to tell the public about this meeting, which she says was a 'personal meeting.' She needs to explain why she is having secret meetings with a person like this--someone that is directly linked to Russian money which was used by Russia in it's war against Georgia last August, and which is still being used against Georgia today. It would be good if she explained similar meetings.

Resonance: Burjanadze says a few months ago, Saakashvili was a personal guest at Pinchuk's home.

Zurab Melikishvili: Aren't I the one giving the interview...

R: Was or was not Saakashvili a guest of Pinchuk?

Z.M.: Fine. Whatever you have asked, I have already answered.

R: Isn't this a question? Was or was not Saakashvili at his home?

At this point, Zurab Melikishvili hung up the phone. Ukrainian news outlets broke the story of Burjanadze's and Pinchuk's meeting on July 1. The meeting took place on June 29. It should be noted that Pinchuk, who is known to be a friend of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, has made several strategic acquisitions in Georgia.

"Saakashvili considered it a great honor to be a guest of this man. A few months ago he was a personal guest. If there were something unacceptable in this man, then why did he hurry to accept the invitation to the Paul McCartney concert in Kiev? If this man associates with criminals, then why was he [Saakashvili] at his home? He [Pinchuk] is a very honorable person, who commands great authority not only in Kiev, but also in the West," noted Nino Burjanadze in a conversation with Resonance last Thursday.

Arrests and extreme forms of protest in Georgia: situation beginning to get out of hand

2009-06-15T17:55:00.006-04:00

Аресты и крайние формы протеста в Грузии: ситуация начинает выходить из-под контроля

Opposition protesters are demonstrating before the building of the Georgian Parliament. The decision to move the protests to Rustaveli Avenue was made by leaders of the opposition after their supporters were forced to flee from the main office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Tbilisi.

Of those protesters, as deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Georgia, Eka Zguladze, stated, 39 were arrested by the police. Zguladze remarked that the police did not intend on resorting to force, but that police recognized many faces of those that had participated in the attack on deputies near the Parliament building on June 12. Attempts to arrest them, however, were met by resistance.

Meanwhile, several memberes of the opposition movement have begun extreme forms of protest. According to an IA Regnum correspondent, one of the protesters demonstrating before Parliament is Abkhazian refugee Ramaz Aroniya, who has sewn his mouth and eyes shut. He is trying to draw attention to the authorities' unwillingness to see what they have done to Georgia, and to condemn law enforcement for suppression of freedom of speech. One Opposition supporter has promised to sew his ears shut, should his protests go unheard by Mikheil Saakashvili.

Saakashvili to govern Georgia from Adjara

2009-06-13T15:29:00.003-04:00

Саакашвили намерен править Грузией из Аджарии

Due to ongoing opposition protests, Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili has been forced to relocate his residence. Currently, the the President of Georgia is 400 kilometers west of Tbilisi in Adjara. Saakashvili's residence in Tbilisi has been surrounded by opposition protesters.

Since April 9, the Georgian opposition has been conducting protests, calling for the resignation of the president. Recently, there was a meeting between Saakashvili and and one of the opposition leaders, Levan Gachechiladze. However, according to the opposition, the meeting did not lead to any favorable developments.

Opposition activists assault Georgian Speaker of Parliament with sticks and stones

2009-06-12T08:13:00.003-04:00

Оппозиционеры атаковали машину спикера парламента Грузии с камнями и палками

Radical opposition activists today assaulted a car in which Georgian Speaker of Parliament David Bakradze was riding. Following the end of the day's parliamentary session, Bakradze left the building and found dozens of opposition activists surrounding his car. According to an IA Regnum correspondent, they began throwing sticks and stones at the speaker's car. Many were shouting "Shame," in a sign of protest against the first session of parliament held since the parliamentary recess began two months ago. Parliament security guards intervened and were able to secure a way out for the speaker, however, they themselves suffered many blows.

Mass arrests of opposition activists underway in Georgia

2009-06-11T17:21:00.004-04:00

В Грузии идут массовые аресты оппозиционных активистов

Today, eleven opposition activists were arrested in Georgia, including ten members of ex-Speaker of Parliament, Nino Burjanadze's party "Democratic Movement--United Georgia", and also one member of the Republican party. They have all been accused of the illegal purchase and possession of weapons.

Responding to the news of the arrest of her supporters, Nino Burjanadze raised a loud cry of protest, saying that "this is a struggle between an authoritarian regime and political opponents." "The unfair and groundless arrests of persons will lead to sense of impunity in the country, and will most definitely be met by civil opposition. The signs are already here," said Burjanadze at a press conference in Tbilisi on June 11. According to Burjanadze, all responsibility lies with president Mikheil Saakashvili, minister of foreign affairs Vano Merabishvili, and other top officials.

The Republican party released a similar statement condemning the authorities' actions. Both parties have appealed to the international community, legal defense organizations, and representatives of the diplomatic corps with requests to monitor the ongoing situation.

Salome Zurabishvili: The only thing that is saving Georgia from destruction is this wave of protests

2009-06-03T22:59:00.007-04:00

Грузию спасает от разрушения только волна оппозиционного протеста: Саломе Зурабишвили

"If the wave of protests in Georgia cease, then the country will be threatened by a new wave of destruction and repression," stated leader of the opposition party "Georgia's Way," ex-head of the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Salome Zurabishvili at a rally in Tbilisi. In her words, "we stand here in order to save our army from destruction."

As for dialogue with the government, in Zurabishvili's opinion, the authorities' talk about the necessity for dialogue is just "for show." She revealed that, during a forthcoming visit to Georgia by representatives from Western countries [the visit of EU Special Representative Peter Semneby], the opposition intends to show that the Georgian public is asking for dialogue, but that it is the authorities who are not willing to engage in dialogue, because they do not want to admit that the country is in crisis.

The Georgian opposition has been holding demonstrations since April 9. They are demanding that Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili resign.

Two activists from Nino Burjanadze's party missing

2009-06-03T22:39:00.002-04:00

В Грузии пропали двое представителей партии Нино Бурджанадзе

Two youth activists, Darejan Gujejiani and Tamara Naveriani, from a youth organization sponsored by the "Democratic Movement--A Unified Georgia" party headed by ex-Speaker of Parliament Nino Burjanadze have gone missing in Georgia. Today at a gathering of opposition party members, Marina Salukvadze addressed Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Eka Zguladze, saying "we demand that measures be taken quickly to search for these young women." According to Salukvadze, at around 3pm, a black jeep began to pursue Gujejiani and Naveriani. The girls had just enough time to phone for help.

Matthew Bryza: US will help Georgia defend its "remaining territory"

2009-05-11T08:56:00.003-04:00

США помогут Грузии защитить свою "оставшуюся территорию": Мэтью Брайза

In an interview with radio station "Echo of Moscow" , Deputy Assistant US Secretary of State Matthew Bryza stated that the US will never recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The American diplomat stated that Russia had been provoking the situation in the zone of the Georgian-Ossetian conflict during the last four years, and that the US had convinced Tbilisi not to give into the provocations.

"We had successfully convinced Georgia to be patient, to not react to any of these provocations, and up to a point, we were successful. Up to August. Ultimately, it was just too much. We have said, and I myself have said many times, that Georgia made a mistake when it launched the attack on Tskhinvali. But the war didn't start with that attack. The war had begun several days, even a week, before this," stated Bryza.

Matthew Bryza also believes that the missions of the OSCE and UN in the zones of the Georgian-Abkhazian and Georgian-Ossetian conflicts should be continued.

Answering a question about the delivery of arms to Georgia, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State stated that the US never delivered offensive arms to Georgia. "Other countries did that," he remarked. As for deliveries of anti-tank and air defense munitions, Bryza said that "they were only for defense."

"Now we are helping Georgia develop a new approach, a new military doctrine. We must help them think differently. To think that, first of all, it needs to defend its territory. I mean, well, you understand, territory. I don't mean Abkhazia and South Ossetia, I mean the remaining territory. And to prepare Georgia to make contributions to international operations in other countries, including in the framework of NATO, in the future," said the American diplomat. "We believe that if we help the Georgian army be professional, this is good for both Russia and Georgia. And I would add that currently, Russia is not fulfilling its obligations according to the agreements of August 12, September 8 and UN resolution 1866. Because Russia has the obligation to withdraw its forces to pre-war positions. And Russia has increased the number of forces. Earlier, they numbered 4,500 ; now they number more than 10,000. Russia is going in a different direction, one that does not coincide with its obligations, " he stated.

Georgia begins deployment of armed divisions to Abkhazian border

2009-05-05T14:00:00.003-04:00

Грузия начала наращивать свои вооруженные подразделения на границе с Абхазией

Georgia began deploying armed divisions to its border with Abkhazia on May 5. The statement was made today by the President of Abkhazia, Sergey Bagapsh. According to incoming reports, armed divisions are actively moving towards the border, he noted. The president of the republic said it was difficult to determine a possible reason for the troop movements, citing that they could be a result of recent events in Georgia or related to NATO exercises currently being held in Georgia.

"We cannot allow a civil war; therefore, we must be very careful"

2009-03-30T21:21:00.008-04:00

Гражданской войны допустить нельзя, поэтому мы должны быть очень осторожны

From Kommersant.ru:

The Georgian opposition has begun preparations for large-scale protests set to begin on April 9. Leader of the party "For a United Georgia", ex-Speaker of Parliament Nino Burjanadze, told special correspondent Olga Allenova of the prospects for a new "velvet revolution" in Georgia.

-- Your supporters were arrested for buying arms. And now there are rumors going about that your party is preparing for a coup. What do you have to say to this?

-- The way the arrests happened is very strange. They happened at five in the morning. The chairman of our party in Adjara called us and said that 25 special-ops officers had burst into a home. Neither the neighbors nor lawyers [i.e. prosecutor's office] had ordered the special-ops. Naturally, the neighbors refused to sign the report that nearly an entire arsenal of "Mukha" grenades was found in the bathroom. I don't think that people who know that they're being investigated would store such weapons in their bathroom. After this there were a series of other arrests, and we saw some very strange footage.

-- You mean the footage released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in which a couple of your supporters can be seen discussing the purchase of arms for the April 9th demonstrations?

-- We simply don't know who most of these people shown in these clips are. We have no connection to them whatsoever. In these clips you can see that there were attempts to pressure these persons into buying heavy arms, such as suggesting that they buy 10-16 automatic weapons instead of one pistol. We haven't seen footage in which the actual transactions take place, and moreover, footage which would make it clear whether or not this was an organized group.

-- You want to say that these persons could have been buying pistols for themselves?

-- It's hard for me to prove that. If someone broke the law, be he a member of my party or someone close to me, he should answer for that. But there is footage which I know for sure was recorded a year ago. In one of the clips, there is a man who, along with his wife, joined our party two months ago. But he's just a rank-and-file member of whom there are more than 15,000. This man has no relationship of any kind with those people who make decisions in the party. And how this man turned up in our office at 6 am is a mystery to me. And, of course, why is he looking directly at the camera, and saying lines that no one usually says? As a lawyer and the spouse of a former general prosecutor, I can say that I've never heard of a criminal case in which a person comes to buy heavy arms and tells the seller what they're needed for. Moreover, that he's preparing for a coup.

-- Are you suggesting that this incident was directed against you and your party? Why?

-- The President has always been rather afraid of me, and he never did trust me, even though I never gave him the slightest occasion to doubt my sincerity. But he knows my character. While I stood by his side, I supported him, even in very uncomfortable situations that hurt my image, but, having left for the opposition, I'm in it until the end. And he understands this. For him, this is dangerous. Because he knows that Nino Burjanadze is a person who's recognized not only within the country, but also abroad. A person who has a name, authority, and opinions that are considered. And that's why it's important for the president to make my party out to be radical.

-- You say that you're ready to go to the end. What does that mean? Will you enter into negotiations?

-- Negotiations could only be about the resignation of the president. His actions have made it impossible to talk about anything else. Negotiations could be held to discuss how to minimize the harm his resignation would have on the country.

-- You're speaking of early presidential elections?

-- Yes.

-- But it's clear that the authorities won't agree to this.

-- If they will not see the firm resolve of the opposition, then they won't agree [to early elections].

-- Has it occurred to you that, as a result of this scandal surrounding the heavy arms, you might have lost your authority?

-- I'm sure that the majority of people don't believe this story. The people understand that the government is the party actively talking about a coup, and that it's simply trying to prove that which it has thought up. And this has put the people on their guard. But I'm sure that a lot of people will come out on April 9. The people are disgusted by what's happening in their country, especially after August. Much depends on how the opposition will conduct itself. If we can make the most of these 10 days, I'm sure that we can have a serious demonstration.

-- And what if during the demonstration someone fires a shot in the crowd and you can't control the fallout?

There is that risk. But if you're afraid of wolves, don't enter the forest. It's necessary to take all precautions to prevent any shots from being fired, or any violence from breaking out. But we can't rule out anything--especially when dealing with this government. And from what I can tell, they plan to use force. And they're looking for an excuse to do so.

-- Can you rule out the possibility that April 9 might mark the beginning of a civil war?

-- I hope that this won't be the case, and I will do everything to see that this doesn't happen. As of now, there are no indications that there should be a civil war. An overwhelming majority of the populations has a negative opinion of Saakashvili. We cannot allow a civil war. And generally speaking, the country will not endorse a plan of action that would involve war. Therefore, we must be very careful.

-- And why are you not willing to wait until the end of the president's term? Or does the transfer of power in Georgia always happen on the streets?

-- To wait and allow the democratic institutions to strengthen is the ideal option. But this government has done some much harm to my country and committed such crimes that it is pretty much impossible to talk about any constiutional term. Snap elections are also a normal European solution. After what happened last August, any normal government would have resigned. And as long as Saakashvili is in power, we have no guarantees that Georgia won't lose even more regions by 2013. This is a tragedy for our people--what happened in August. And all our president says is "So what, so we lost a few regions." We need a leader who is willing to fight for every last piece of land, and not necessarily by means of war, willing to fight for a democratic country.

-- But the authorities are saying that it was impossible to avoid the war.

-- This war could have and should have been avoided. The fact that today I'm criticizing Saakashvili does not mean that I approve of Russia's actions. Russia has acted entirely inappropriately, respecting neither the territorial integrity nor sovereignty of Georgia, nor the interests of the Georgian people. To say that Russia respects Georgia and the Georgian people, but doesn't like Saakashvili is not a very serious argument. The Georgian people were bombed, not Saakashvili. Georgian villages and cities. And territory was seized, when South Ossetia and Abkhazia were recognized, not from Saakashvili, but from the Georgian people. It became clear last August that we were being provoked. It was necessary to think two moves ahead before going to war with Russia.

-- You see this war as a Russian provocation?

-- It was a provocation. Saakashvili fell for it and dragged the country into war, a war which from the very outset was clear would be lost.

-- You recently had a meeting with the US Ambassador to Georgia and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Bryza. What did you discuss, if it's not a secret?

-- There are no secrets. I believe it's important that representatives from friendly nations shoud know the real situation. They see one side of the story from the government, which is broadcast on TV, and we show them the other side.

-- Do they see April 9 as a real threat?

-- Certainly, everyone is watching the situation very closely because any sane person can see how serious the situation has become. And, of course, these people want everything to end peacefully, by constitutional means. And we desire the same.

Eduard Shevardnadze: "If I were Saakashvili, I would step down"

2009-03-30T18:57:00.005-04:00

"На месте Саакашвили я бы ушел": Эдуард Шеварднадзе

Ex-Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze stated that "if I were Saakashvili, I would step down." At a meeting with journalists, the 81 year-old Shevardnadze expressed his opinion that "if a hundred thousand or more people gather at the April 9 demonstrations, and they demand Saakashvili's resignation, then, I think, the president should not oppose the people, but should respect the will of the people and resign."

In response to the question, "Have you had contact with Saakashvili?", Shevardnadze answered: "It's already been several years since I last met with him or spoke with him over the phone." Shevardnadze also denied media reports that he intended to make a return to politics. "I'm a pensioner, and I am not meeting with officials nor Georgian politicians. Talk of my returning to politics or power is nothing more than a fairy tale."

Saakashvili has not once stated that he intends to resign before the end of his term in 2013. Authorities emphasize that the fate of Georgia--a country with a population of 4.5 million people--"cannot and should not be decided by 100 or 150 thousand demonstrators."

European Commission finds that Saakashvili initiated the "August War"

2009-03-23T18:56:00.003-04:00

Комиссия ЕС признала, что инициатором августовской войны был Саакашвили

The European Commission, tasked with investigating last August's war in the Caucasus, has found that Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili initiated the military conflict. The report was released on March 23 by the weekly paper Der Spiegel.

Der Spiegel's Moscow correspondent Uwe Klussmann writes: On August 7, 2008, General Mamuka Kurashvili, commander of the Georgian peacekeepers deployed in South Ossetia, appeared on national television and stated that Georgia had decided to "restore constitutional order in the region." And with that began the five-day war between Russia and Georgia which quickly escalated tensions between the East and the West, -- "to the most dangerous levels since the end of the Cold War." According to Der Spiegel, the European Commission singled out Kurashvili's television appearance as the primary factor. "His statements serve as proof that the president of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, was not concerned with any 'Russian aggression,'

which he to this day claims to be his motive for invading South Ossetia, but rather was planning an offensive war. In fact, Kurashvili cited "Georgian Order Number 2" on August 7--a document which could answer the question as to who began this war," writes the author of the article.

"It is believed that the Commission's report, which is expected to be released early this summer, will mention that over the course of several years, Russia provided those living in South Ossetia with Russian passports. Experts in international law see this as an interference in Georgia's internal affairs. Nevertheless, the findings of the European Commission indicate that Tbilisi is more to blame than Moscow. Those close to the Georgian President have been reacting nervously to the Commission's efforts, like Temur Yakobashvili, the "Minister of Reintegration" of the breakaway provinces, for example. Now, he is spreading rumors that the Commission is financed by "Gazprom," says one source.

The Commission is made up of diplomats, military officials, historians, and experts in international law.

[Click here to read the original Der Spiegel article (in English)]

Former Insider Lashes Out at Authorities

2008-09-29T19:31:00.001-04:00

From Civil.ge (not a translation)

Civil Georgia, Tbilisi / 29 Sep.'08 / 21:25

Erosi Kitsmarishvili, a person who once owned Rustavi 2 TV and was President Saakashvili’s administration insider, said a political force that would be an alternative to the current “discredited authorities” should be established.

Kitsmarishvili served as Georgia’s ambassador in Moscow, before he was recalled in July. Kitsmarishvili, who has never been a career diplomat, was dismissed by the Foreign Ministry in mid-September. He was the President’s close ally and was Saakashvili’s key strategist ahead of the January 5 snap presidential elections.

Kitsmarishvili used a newspaper interview published on September 29 in the largest-selling Georgian weekly Kviris Palitra, to unleash criticism of his former allies for as he put it a failure to avert war with Russia and also for degenerating level of democracy and freedom of media. He said that level of democracy was higher in the last years of Eduard Shevardnadze’s presidency, than it was now.

“People like me should no longer be part of this government; they should be opponents of these authorities with which the resource of relation has been exhausted,” Kitsmarishvili said.

“There are many interesting persons both within and outside the current authorities,” he continued, but did not specify the names. “We should create an alternative to these authorities. That is my position, because today we have discredited authorities.”

He said that this alternative was needed in order to restore political balance in the country and to create kind of a checks-and-balances system.

“I will be one of them who will implement this; the current reality [that has emerged after the August war with Russia] will help this process, as well as the political forces – which are in the process of establishment and part of them has already established themselves,” he said.

Kitsmarishvili said that the war could have been averted if President Saakashvili had listened to senior western diplomats and if he had not gone into the Russian trap.

“I, as the last ambassador of Georgia to Russia, want to stress that the Georgian authorities did not take into account the position of top diplomats regarding the conflict resolution issues,” Kitsmarishvili said. “Hence, I, who stood aside these authorities, despite numerous disagreements want to announce that there is no place for me to stay with the Saakashvili’s government… and I distance myself from him [President Saakashvili].”

He also said that planned “public activities,” but added he was not ready at this point to specify details of his future plans.

When speaking about the August war, Kitsmarishvili recalled Georgia’s UN ambassador Irakli Alasania’s efforts to push for the peace plan with Abkhazia.

“In case of implementation of this plan, we could have averted bloody scenario of events,” Kitsmarishvili said.

Also in this context he mentioned that ex-parliamentary speaker Nino Burjanadze; Irakli Alasania and “the Georgian diplomats” in general “have not been listened” by the senior decision-makers in the Georgian authorities.

He also suggested that “little chances” would have still remained for averting the war if Burjanadze was the Parliamentary Chairperson.

Kitsmarishvili is a founder of the Rustavi 2 television. He gained significant political weight – although he never was an acting politician - after the 2003 Rose Revolution as his television station sided with then opposition leaders and played key role in those developments back in November, 2003. He said that next day after ex-president Shevardnadze stepped down on November 23, Mikheil Saakashvili, Nino Burjanadze, Zurab Zhvania and he met and distributed powers and responsibilities in post-revolution Georgia. Kitsmarishvili has claimed that his role – as a participant of the Rose Revolution “project,” as he called it - was to oversee observance of the verbal agreement reached between the leaders.

Kitsmarishvili had to give up the television stations, supposedly, after disagreements with Zurab Zhvania, the late Prime Minister.

In the newspaper interview, Kitsmarishvili acknowledged having disagreements with Zhvania and even said: “we have parted ways as enemies.” He also said that he did not believe Zhvania’s death in February, 2005 was just an accident; “It was a murder,” he said, but did no elaborate further on the matter.

Kitsmarishvili’s criticism of the Saakashvili’s administration comes two weeks after the same newspaper published an interview with ex-Prime Minister Zurab Nogaidlei, who also under the pretext of the August war lashed out at his former allies. Nino Burjanadze, the ex-parliamentary speaker, stopped short of directly accusing the authorities for the August war, but said she had “tough questions” which needed answers from the government.

Giga Bokeria, a deputy foreign minister, and an influential figure within the administration, hinted that losing of official posts was the reason behind the critical remarks of former allies.

“It is strange that such criticism coincides as usually with the fact of losing bureaucratic posts,” he said in an interview with the Kviris Palitra also published on September 29. He declined to comment why Kitsmarishvili was dismissed.

Kitsmarishvili, meanwhile, has claimed that before quitting the Saakashvili’s administration, he had been offered a new post – which he refused to specify – but declined.

Ombudsman Speaks Out

2008-09-26T10:39:00.001-04:00

From Civil.ge (not translated by me):

Ombudsman Speaks Out
Civil Georgia, Tbilisi / 26 Sep.'08 / 12:10

Georgia is not "ruled correctly" and it is necessary to replace the existing "authoritarianism" with real democracy in order to save the country, Georgian Public Defender Sozar Subari said in a statement issued on September 25.

"We reiterate our readiness for cooperation and open dialogue in order to change the existing authoritarian system with democratic governance, as well as to establish the rule of law in the country," Subari said. "To achieve this, we should employ all forms of peaceful protest to persuade the government."

The public defender also speaks about the August events and the human rights situation.

"Despite the president's promise to dedicate his presidency to the re-unification of Georgia, now the Ksani Gorge – now known as Akhalgori district – the Kodori Gorge, Didi and Patara Liakhvi Gorges and Prone Gorge have been added to the list of lost territories," the statement reads.

Subari blamed authoritarian governance for this development.

"New disasters are to be expected in the event of a continuation of authoritarianism," the public defender said. "The Russian model of authoritarian governance in Georgia, which envisages a unilateral and forceful settlement of problems inside and outside the country, is a fifth column responsible for Georgia's failure."

“The government that is locked within it, which listens only to itself and respects only its own judgment, has lost the capacity for proper decision-making; Russia took advantage of this and has executed its long plotted perfidious plan of conquering our territories. Our country and its people have fallen prey to these processes,” the statement reads.

It also said that the authorities, who lost the August war, are only thinking about the PR side of things.

“Even if there had been the smallest ground for optimism for the government - as if human casualties, loss of more territories, burned villages and a new wave of IDPs counted as a victory for the authorities - accelerating the process of unifiying the country and its prosperity, wisdom and common sense require that shouts of “we won”, concerts and celebrations should be postponed until at least even the contours of this victory are visible,” the public defender said.

He said that under current conditions the only way out is “to face the truth“ and to analyze what has happened in reality.

“Intolerance of different opinions, a tunnel vision, the side-lining of the law and permanent complacency have become the rule of life of the current system of governance. The culture of listening to different opinions, discussions, disputes and dialogue has been lost even among the authorities themselves,” Subari said. “The authorities are not interested in understanding what people think about them; they want that people constantly listen to their speeches about what the authorities think about themselves.”

“Georgia is not the property of the government; it belongs to each citizen,” he said. “At this time, silence and inactivity is equal to a crime.”

“Root” Democratic Reforms

The public defender said that under current conditions the only way out of the situation was to carry out “root [and branch]” democratic reforms, instead of making “pseudo-democratic” changes. Subari also said that a new wave of democratic reforms announced by President Saakashvili aims “at painting facades.”

He stressed that the democratic freedoms and human rights situation had worsened in the country; there are no courts, different opinions are persecuted, no fair elections are held, property rights are violated, so-called “elite corruption” is in place; no freedom of assembly or freedom to demonstrate is provided for; TV stations are completely controlled by the authorities; “all power is concentrated in the hands of the president and several leaders;” intimidation of citizens has become a lever in the hands of the authorities.

“It is especially cynical that all this happens under the banner and on behalf of democracy,” he said.

Subari also said that the authorities had “silence[d] the information space” and replaced it with “propaganda.”

“As a result, instead of receiving actual information, from dawn to dusk we are doomed to listen to the propaganda that “Misha is cool”, everything is fine, that we won and that Georgia will soon blossom,” he said.

In order to achieve “irreversible democracy," the public defender urged the authorities:

• To immediately stop persecution of people with different opinions;
• To set up fair and independent courts;
• To establish the rule of law;
• To provide freedom of speech and expression; to abolish state control over TV stations; to prevent state interference in media activities;
• To develop a fair elections code; to create the environment necessary for holding free and fair elections;
• To create a free and competitive political environment;
• To de-politicize law enforcement agencies and the Prosecutor’s Office;
• To provide checks and balances between various governmental branches; to distribute presidential power;
• To grant real functions to local self-governance bodies;
• To introduce the principle of government responsibility and accountability to society; freedom and accessibility of public information for each citizen;
• To ensure the inviolability of property rights;
• To create a stable, free, competitive business environment;
• To ensure freedom of assembly and association, and the right to protest;

Simultaneously, in a message to friendly countries and international community, the Georgian public defender noted that “Georgian people do not deserve an authoritarian regime… Georgia is ready for democracy.”

“Help us in [developing] democracy! Help us in persuading the authorities that declarations of the attributes and principles of democracy only on paper, while [at the same time] establishing an authoritarian system in reality, will lead the country towards catastrophe,” Subari said.

[See the Opposition reaction here]

EU against US fleet in Black Sea

2008-09-06T13:06:00.004-04:00

ЕС - против флота США в Чёрном море

French Minister of Foreign Affairs Bernard Kouchner has voiced opposition to the presence of a US fleet in the Black Sea. At a press conference in Avignon summarizing the results of an informal meeting of heads of Ministries of Foreign Affairs of EU member nations, he said that the presence of the US fleet in this region "serves no purpose. We need to defuse the situation," specifying that the crisis "can only be resolved politically, not by war ships."

Commenting on Vice-President Dick Cheney's announcement that the US would allocate $1 billion to Georgia, Kouchner said: "I am happy for this, but what does this change? We are also giving a lot of money for restoration (of Georgia); we're not competing." Story from Bloomberg.

US plans to establish military bases in Georgia

2008-09-06T11:38:00.005-04:00

США планируют создание военных баз в Грузии

The US is planning to establish permanent naval bases on the coast of Georgia. Currently, there are intense negotiations between the US, Georgia, and Turkey concerning the future presence of war ships in Poti and Batumi.

According to Georgian sources, the bases will be designed for quick response. Another purpose for the bases is to provide security for the energy corridor, which crosses Georgian territory. However, Turkey's position on this issue is not yet clear as it is afraid of the Russia reaction.

After the crisis surrounding South Ossetia developed, 7 NATO war ships entered the Black Sea. Just yesterday, the flagship of the 6 vessel US fleet the "Mount Whitney" docked at the port in Poti.

Burjanadze Says Warned Saakashvili Over S. Ossetia

2008-09-06T09:29:00.004-04:00

The following is taken from civil.ge:

Nino Burjanadze, the former parliamentary speaker, said it was too early to say if the crisis could have been avoided.

“I need serious analysis. I need answers to the questions,” she said in an interview with Reuters on September 5 after speaking at Columbia University in New York.

When asked what would happen if it does turn out to have been avoidable, she said: “In this case, I don't wish to be in the place of the government.”

“I can say it's very difficult to imagine a good position for the president of a country that has such big problems,” Burjanadze said. “I don't think that he feels himself comfortable and well or stronger than he was before.”

“However, we, the Georgian people, do not consider the government as victims only and, of course, the time will come for a sober assessment of what went wrong in Georgia.”

She said that she had met with President Saakashvili “few days before the crisis.”

“I expressed my views and my vision. I was sure that Russia will attack if there will be any kind of military action from the Georgian side, and I saw that Russia wanted to provoke Georgia.”

“I always thought there is no military solution for Ossetia and Abkhazia because Russia will fight, Russia will send troops, Russia will send arms, Russia will send aircraft.”

“I understood that it's a real disaster for my country,” she added.

[A little background, Burjanadze was once a very popular politician. She rose to power with Saakashvili and was seen as his closest ally. However, she shocked Georgia when she decided against running for re-election in the Parliamentary elections last May. It looks like she had seen the writing on the wall.]

Leonid Grach: Yushchenko knew of Georgia's plan to attack South Ossetia

2008-09-05T16:39:00.004-04:00

Леонид Грач: Ющенко заранее знал о планах нападения Грузии на Южную Осетию

"Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko knew that Georgian leader Mikheil Saakashvili had plans to attack South Ossetia several days in advance, and even discouraged the Georgian president from making such a move; however, he himself has not admitted to this. Therefore, Yushchenko is complicit in the genocide which occurred in South Ossetia." The statement was made on September 4 during a round table discussion on the topic "Ukraine's Role in the Recent Events in the Caucasus" by member of the Ukrainian Communist Party Leonid Grach, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

At the same time, the politician stated that the Yushchenko administration is trying to hide the truth of the events in South Ossetia. "When the war first broke out, the people could get the truth, a departure from the usual disinformation. There were dozens of cameras and not even enough seats for journalists in the hall. But as soon as we tried to call things by their own names and say the truth, there number of journalists dwindled to half of the number here at this 'round table'. This is just yet another example of the ruling party, led by Viktor Yushchenko, preventing the truth from reaching Ukrainian citizens," noted Grach.

Nicaragua officially recognizes Abkhazia and South Ossetia

2008-09-05T16:29:00.003-04:00

Никарагуа официально признала независимость Абхазии и Южной Осетии

Nicaragua has become the first country after Russia to officially recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Today, September 5, Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega released an official decree recognizing the independence of these republics, reports the Associated Press.

Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia on August 26.

Georgian Opposition: ‘Time for Tough Question has Come’

2008-09-04T16:07:00.002-04:00

The following is taken from USAID-funded Civil.ge:

‘Time for Tough Question has Come’

Civil Georgia, Tbilisi / 4 Sep.'08 / 19:06

• Open letter calls for public debate;
• Usupashvili: Saakashvili fell into Russian trap;
• Targamadze: special commission should study mistakes.

Some public and civil society figures, as well some politicians, have said that the time has come to ask tough questions of the authorities about what led to war and to the subsequent grave results for the country.

An open letter, published by the Georgian daily Rezonansi on September 4 and signed by over eighty individuals and organizations, has called for the launch of a public debate on recent developments.

The letter, signed by representatives of human rights groups, academic circles, journalists and some public figures, says that “for a broad public debate on the problem” it is necessary “to set the Georgian Public Broadcaster free of the authorities’ censorship.”

“Extensive propaganda is currently underway, blaming the catastrophic consequences [of the conflict] on everyone – an aggressive Russia, an ignorant West (which, it is claimed, ignored the Georgian leaders’ warnings); the opposition; Russian spies, etc. – everyone, but not the authorities themselves,” the letter reads.

Then it lists some questions, which the signatories say, should be answered by the authorities, including, why it happened that the Georgian side “despite the U.S. administration’s warnings, fell into the Russian trap.”

The letter blames the Georgian authorities for “the catastrophic consequences” and says that “the authorities, which have in fact prepared the ground for these consequences through its non-professionalism and anti-democracy, are now claiming that what has happened was impossible to prevent.”

The signatories of the open letter include, among others, the Georgian Academy, an opposition-leaning, non-governmental group uniting actors and some intelligentsia figures; the Human Rights Centre; the Former Political Prisoners for Human Rights; the Equality Institute; and the investigative reporting group Studio Reporter.

Also on September 4, MP Giorgi Targamadze, the chairman of the Christian-Democratic Party and the leader of the parliamentary minority, said “the time has come to launch a debate and [make] decisions – without hysteria – about what has happened.”

“To make appropriate conclusions and draw lessons, it will be essential to create a special parliamentary commission to scrupulously investigate mistakes made at political, strategic, tactical, and operational levels,” Targamadze said in a statement.

He also said that Russia had been gradually preparing the ground for an invasion of Georgia, but he also partially put the blame on the Georgian authorities, saying that their rhetoric and policies had been “designed to finally reintegrate the Tskhinvali region into Georgia by using force.” Targamadze added that it was now “hard to prove that Georgia didn’t start the war.”

Targamadze also said that Georgia’s western partners should “not allow the government of Georgia to use a so-called ‘iron hand’ policy against the opposition.”

Echoing some other opposition politicians, Targamadze said that President Saakashvili’s proposal for an anti-crisis group with the involvement of opposition parties would only be effective if it worked on broader “democratization” issues and not just on overseeing the distribution of humanitarian aid for the victims of the conflict.

Meanwhile, Davit Usupashvili, the leader of the opposition Republican Party, said in a newspaper interview, published on September 4, that he was sure President Saakashvili had “[fallen] into a Russian trap.”

“It seems to me that Saakashvili was misled by someone telling him that the Russians would not intervene in Tskhinvali on condition that we would stop our active measures in respect of Abkhazia,” he told the daily Rezonansi. “That is my impression, because otherwise it is unclear how it was possible to fall into this trap if there were no guarantees that the Russians would not intervene.”

Usupashvili also said that “the time has come to ask questions and to find out the truth.”

“But it should in no way be interpreted as a demand for the immediate resignation of the government,” he added. “It may be even worse to raise the issue of a change in leadership in the near future.”

Speaking in Parliament on September 3, Nika Rurua, a senior lawmaker from the ruling party, said that recent developments needed to be thoroughly investigated “professionally, without any political stage show.” “That should in no way be part of some political populism,” MP Rurua, who is the deputy chairman of the parliamentary committee for defense and security, said.

He was in particular speaking about the military aspects of recent events.

MP Rurua said the extent of the damage inflicted on Georgia’s defense capabilities and military infrastructure would be made public soon. Reforms, necessary due to shortfalls revealed by the conflict, would also be publicly outlined, he said.

Tsotne Gamsakhurdia accused of espionage and attempting to overthrow government

2008-09-04T14:31:00.004-04:00

Цотне Гамсахурдия обвиняется в шпионаже и попытке госпереворота

Tsotne Gamsakhurdia, middle son of the first president of Georgia [Zviad Gamsakhurdia], has been charged on two counts: according to clause 314 of the Georgian Criminal Code ("Espionage") and clause 135 ("Plotting with the aim to overthrow a legitimate power"). The charges were announced by the accused's defense attorney Keti Bekauri, reports "Kavkaz-Press."

According to Bekauri, Gamsakhurdia is already talking, having refused his right to silence. "He denies the charges and will not plead guilty," said the attorney. Gamsakhurdia was arrested the evening of September 3 at the Tbilisi airport, returning via Baku from Moscow where he has been living these last years. Gamsakhurdia has been under investigation since November 2007. Back then, the General Prosecutor of Georgia accused him of attempting to organize a coup and of communicating with Russian special services. Gamsakhurdia is accused of spying for Russia.

Earlier, on August 22, after the active phase of the military operation in South Ossetia had already ended, the United Opposition warned that Georgian authorities might soon begin once again to search for internal enemies. The worries were brought out by a statement made by Saakashvili's wife Sandra Roelofs in which she said that "the opposition protests in November 2007 were financed by Russia."

One of the leaders of the United Opposition, secretary for the party "Movement for a United Georgia" Eka Beselia stated that the Georgian authorities would soon begin to search for internal enemies and any artificial link between the Georgian opposition and the Russian special services. "This is an attempt by the authorties to find an escape from the current situation, to overcome the crisis. It will be necessary for the authorities to find internal enemies, but I am absolutely sure that it won't be successful, just as it wasn't in November when they even made films about Russian agents in the Georgian opposition," she noted.

Notice

2008-09-03T09:13:00.005-04:00

Dear Readers,

I hope my blog has been a useful tool for those looking to find alternative sources of information on this summer's Russo-Georgian conflict. Over 95% of my translations came from Russian sources, but that is only because so little of the Russian perspective of this complicated war made it into the Western media. If the reverse were true--that is, only the Russian side was being told, and not Georgia's--then I can assure you 95% of these translations would have come from Georgian sources.

I lived in Georgia for almost 9 months over 2007-08 and care too much about this little country to see it destroyed by its president; sadly, the Western media has been complicit in helping Saakashvili do so by being all to eager to repeat his version of events without giving so much as a mention to Russia's. Fortunately, that is beginning to change. Today, this article ran in the New York Times (be sure to read the whole thing).

In this day and age of instant communication, where information is at our fingertips, we may believe that the truth is immediately accessible. But in reality, this flood of information is not very helpful if it is all coming from one source, in this case, Georgia's president.

One of the greatest lessons we should take from this is that language is and will remain a barrier. If we as Americans wish to continue to play the lead role in international affairs, then it is vital for us to speak the languages of the countries we decide to work so intimately with. When we so arrogantly expect foreign leaders to know English, we make ourselves vulnerable to people like Saakashvili. We literally hear only what we want to hear.

This is my notice that beginning today, I will no longer be translating at the rate I have been doing so. Today I leave for California to visit relatives, and later in the month, I will be returning to Chicago to resume studies at the University of Chicago. I hope to continue to translate one or two articles a day, but there will certainly be days without activity. I hope that my need will diminish as the Western media begins to be more balanced in its coverage. My wish is that my blog will remain as a historical record to the events before, during, and after the Russo-Georgian War of 2008.

Ryan Erickson
rugbyxm[at]gmail.com

Georgian special forces team disarmed in South Ossetia

2008-09-03T07:52:00.003-04:00

В Южной Осетии разоружена группа грузинского спецназа

Georgia continues to carry out provocations in South Ossetia. According to the president of the republic Eduard Kokoity, a Georgian special forces team was recently disarmed by divisions of the Ministry of Defense. "They were going to carry out a diversionary strike in the village of Аrtseu [Арцеу] under the guise of being Georgian policemen," stated Kokoity.

The president also noted that the leadership of the republic was not indifferent to the fate of the Georgians who are still living in South Ossetia. "We will do everything in order for them to live in security. Humanitarian aid is being sent to the Lenigori region today. There we are discussing pension ssues, restoration issues, and the function of Georgian schools. Georgian children will learn in the Georgian language," stated Kokoity.

Medvedev calls on US to reevaluate its relations with Saakashvili's administration

2008-09-02T14:25:00.004-04:00

Медведев призвал США переоценить отношения с режимом Саакашвили

Sochi, 2 Sep -- RIA Novosti

It's time for the US to reevaluate its relations with the current Georgian administration, following aggressions which left more than 1,000 people dead, stated Dmitry Medvedev in an interview with the Italian television company RAI.

Georgia launched an offensive in South Ossetia, after which Russia was forced to enter the conflict zone to reinforce its peacekeepers. On August 12, the end of operation "Enforced Peace" in Georgia was declared.

"I believe that in light of these events, it is time for our American partners to reevaluate their relations with the current administration, especially since it has put Georgia in a difficult situation, destabilized conditions, and unleashed aggressions, as a result of which many people died," said the Russian president.

Political Scientist: Outcome of EU Summit creates possibility for renewed Georgian aggression

2008-09-02T11:14:00.004-04:00

Политолог: итоги саммита ЕС создают возможность для повторения грузинской агрессии

The fact that there was no mention of Georgian aggression in a resolution passed by yesterday's emergency EU Summit creates the possibility for a recurrence of what has happened. The opinion was expressed by Gleb Pavlovsky, president of the Effective Policy Fund, at a round table discussion in Moscow on September 2, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

According to the political scientist, the outcome of the recent EU summit is double-edged. "On the one hand, Europe has managed to avoid absolute American dictatorship. Poland and the Baltic States couldn't impose their own position on the EU and have temporarily receded. On the other hand, nowhere was Georgia's aggression mentioned. All the world can see that this paves the way for a replay of events," notes Pavlovsky.

Pavlovsky believes that Russia should draw all possible conclusions from what has happened, including military conclusions. "Europe's request for Russia to withdraw Russian armies from the security zone on Georgian territory would create a real risk for a recurrence," the expert asserts.

"We have made greater concessions to Europe. In fact, it was only the request of President Sarkozy that prevented the real outcome of operation 'Enforced Peace'--the arrest of Saakashvili as the main perpetrator of the war. This was a serious compromise which we now regret," believes Gleb Pavlovsky.

Sukhumi and Moscow to sign agreement on Russian bases in Abkhazia after two weeks

2008-09-02T10:08:00.004-04:00

Сухум и Москва подпишут договор о российских базах в Абхазии через две недели

Sukhumi and Moscow plan to sign an agreement in two weeks on the establishment of a Russian military base on Abkhazian territory. The statement was made by Abkhazian President Sergey Bagapsh at a press conference, reports an IA Regnum correspondent. According to Bagapsh, the Abkhazian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently drawing up the documents. The President of Abkhazia assigned responsibility for events in the Caucasus to those Western countries which armed Georgia.

**Update**

According to this RIA Novosti story (in English), Abkhazia does not plan to establish Russian military bases as previously reported.

Russian MFA disturbed by activity of Georgian forces on South Ossetian border

2008-09-02T09:08:00.004-04:00

МИД РФ обеспокоен активностью грузинских силовиков на границе с Южной Осетией

The Russian General Staff is describing conditions in the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict zone as relatively calm; however, it is impossible to say the same for the situation in South Ossetia. The statement was made today, September 2, at a Moscow briefing by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative Andrei Nesterenko. He noted that activity had been observed among the Georgian forces and that the command of the Georgian Armed Forces continues to restore the fighting capacity of its divisions.

Based on reports from troops on the ground, Nesterenko spoke of an incident last night that took place not far from a peacekeeping post in the Karaleti region. As Nesterenko explained, Georgian forces carried out provocative actions directed against the Russian peacekeepers. He assumed that the incident was specially organized. The representative believes that such actions do not help to stabilize the situation in the region.

Nesterenko also commented on the escalating situation regarding a fleet of NATO war ships off the coast of Georgia. Three of the vessels are American, and one each belong to Poland, Spain, and Germany. He reminded journalists that, according to an international agreement, only three Black Sea NATO countries--Turkey, Romania, and Bulgaria--have the right to deploy as many ships as they wish to other Black Sea nations, as they are coastal states.

Russian soldiers block humanitarian aid

2008-09-01T19:17:00.007-04:00

რუსმა ჯარისკაცებმა ჰუმანიტარული ტვირთი არ გაატარეს

Russian soldiers did not allow passage of humanitarian through a checkpoint near Karaleti, Shida Kartli administrators tell "Interpressnews."

The shipments were destined for Georgian villages, among them the remaining residents of Patara [Lesser] Liakhvi Gorge. Shida Kartli governor Lado Vardzelashvili made the Russian blockade known at today's "Live Chain" mass demonstration.

Interpressnews [Georgian news agency]

Georgia withdraws from Joint Control Commission for Georgian-Ossetian Conflict Resolution

2008-09-01T14:26:00.003-04:00

Грузия выходит из Смешанной контрольной комиссии по урегулированию грузино-осетинского конфликта

"Georgia is withdrawing from the Joint Control Commission (JCC) for Georgian-Ossetian Conflict Resolution and requests the immediate withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers from the territory of the former South-Ossetian autonomous oblast." According to an IA Regnum correspondent, the announcement was made in a statement released the evening of September 1 by Georgian State Minister for Reintegration Issues Temur Iakobashvili.

"In accordance with the resolutions passed by the Parliament of Georgia on July 18, 2006 'Concerning the peacekeeping forces deployed on Georgian territory' and on August 28, 2008 'Concerning the occupation of Georgian territory by the Russian Federation,' as well as with item 3 of Order of the Georgian Government No.552 signed on August 29, 2008, the State Minister for Reintegration Issues has been authorized to declare that Georgia is withdrawing from the Joint Control Commission for Georgian-Ossetian Conflict Resolution, created according to the June 24, 1992 agreement 'concerning the principles of resolving the Georgian-Ossetian conflict'," says the State Minister in the release.

"The aforementioned decisions were made after the Russian Federation, by its own hostile actions, disregarded all the peacemaking documents, which had been accepted at a bilateral level and within the limits of the CIS. Accordingly, the Georgian MFA has carried out procedures for the unilateral termination of the agreement 'Concerning the principles of resolving the Georgian-Ossetian conflict' of June 24, 1992," the statement notes.

"After this, the Joint Control Commission for Georgian-Ossetian Conflict Resolution ceases to exist, and all protocols and agreements made in the framework of the JCC have lost their validity; the mandate of the JCC has been abolished, and therefore, the immediate termination of the so-called 'peacekeeping operation' in the former South Ossetian oblast and the immediate withdrawal of divisions of the Russian army from Georgian territory should follow," the statement reads.

"At the same time, the government of Georgia states that it remains committed to the positions outlined by the president of France in the ceasefire agreement, which are presented in the corresponding letter from Nicolas Sarkozy and enclosed explanations," emphasizes Iakobashvili.

Russian MFA: Rearming of Georgia has begun

2008-09-01T13:31:00.003-04:00

МИД РФ: перевооружение Грузии началось

Official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Andrei Nesterenko said today that Russia has evidence that Georgia has begun to rearm.

"The restoration of Georgia's military which suffered during the conflict," emphasized the diplomat, "is happening under the guise of humanitarian aid. There is the suspicion that the aid may not be intended solely for civilians, but also for the military, and it will go towards restoring the weakened armed forces."

"Therefore, we have expressed the necessity to consider imposing an embargo on shipments of arms to Georgia," added Nesterenko.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov proposed such an embargo today.

"In order to prevent a relapse of violence in the region, Russia will continue to take measures to punish the guilty, so that this regime [of Saakashvili] will never again do harm," said the minister, speaking before students at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, "First of all, it would be wise to impose an embargo on arms shipments to this regime, until a new administration transforms Georgia into a normal state." Lavrov reminded listeners that it was precisely this military aid, which the US rendered to Georgia, "which encouraged the irresponsible and unpredictable regime of Saakashvili."

According to Nesterenko, "Russian peacekeeping forces are now undertaking additional security measures."

"For this purpose, the buffer zone around South Ossetia is being provided with Russian peacekeeping posts with a total personnel of up to 500 persons," he said, quotes ITAR-TASS.

US to continue to aid Georgia financially

2008-09-01T13:15:00.006-04:00

США продолжат оказывать Грузии финансовую помощь

The US "will continue to provide Georgia with significant financial and political support." The statement was made today in Brussels by US Assistant Deputy Secretary of State Matthew Bryza in an interview with Georgian journalists which was later broadcast on the Tbilisi television company Rustavi-2.

"The US condemns the actions of Russia in relation to Georgia and the invasion of Georgian territory by Russian armies. The US will continue to provide Georgia with significant financial and political support," noted Bryza.

Responding to a question on "what decision will the EU make on Russia," he said: "I don't know what decision the EU will make concerning Russia. That is the prerogative of the leaders of EU member countries. But I do know that the EU will provide Georgia with significant economic and political aid, and that is very important for the development of the country," quotes ITAR-TASS.

Human Rights Watch: Georgia used cluster bombs against South Ossetia

2008-09-01T11:57:00.001-04:00

Грузия использовала против Южной Осетии кассетные бомбы: Human Rights Watch

The international organization Human Rights Watch has determined that Georgia used cluster bombs against South Ossetia. As the Associated Free Press reports, the statement was made by representative of HRW Bonnie Docherty. Earlier, Russia was blamed for using cluster bombs; however, the representative of the General Staff of the Russian Federation has denied these allegations.

Russian MFA: Sending war ships to unstable region won't bring calm

2008-09-01T11:48:00.002-04:00

Направление вооруженных кораблей в нестабильный регион не внесёт спокойствия - МИД РФ

The deployment of military forces to unstable regions does not bring any calm and does not help find a solution to the problem which we have here. The opinion was expressed by official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Andrei Nesterenko on September 1, at a Moscow press conference, commenting on the presence of a fleet of NATO ships in the Black Sea, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

Nesterenko said that sending ships armed with formidable weapons to the region cannot be considered as a stabilizing measure. "If the ships leave, it will be interpreted as an effort to de-escalate the situation, but the gathering of armed forces is always unequivocally contrary to resolving issues surrounding stabilization," said Nesterenko.

Currently, there are around 10 naval vessels from NATO member countries on the Black Sea.

Russian MFA: US rendered military assistance to Georgia during war in South Ossetia

2008-09-01T11:41:00.002-04:00

МИД РФ: США оказывало Грузии военное содействие во время войны в Южной Осетии

Official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Andrei Nesterenko refused to comment on a report by Deputy Chief of the General staff of the Russian Armed Forces Anatoly Nogovitsyn that an American passport was found in the South Ossetian war zone. As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, at a Moscow briefing held today, September 1, Nesterenko emphasized that this question belongs to the representatives of the General Staff.

Speaking of concrete military support from the US for Georgia during the war, Nesterenko stated that for the time being, there is only the instance of 2,000 Georgian soldiers transferred from Iraq to Georgia by US military transport aircraft. However, Nesterenko also reminded journalists that the US administration considers Georgia as one of its allies and rendered it various types of military assistance, from equipping its armies to providing training.

Medvedev: Russia doesn't want confrontations with any party

2008-08-31T13:09:00.004-04:00

Медведев: Россия не хочет конфронтации ни с одной страной

President Dmitry Medvedev recently gave an interview to several Russian television companies. The head of state announced the five principles of Russian foreign policy and once again commented on his decision to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

The first principle, President Medvedev believes, maintains that Russia recognizes the superiority of the basic principles of international laws which define the relations between civilized peoples. "And in the framework of this position, in the framework of this concept of international laws, we will develop our relations with other states," noted the president of the Russian Federation.

"The second is that peace should be multipolar. Unipolarity is unacceptable; domination is inadmissible," emphasized Dmitry Medvedev, "We cannot accept such peace-building in which all the decisions are made by one party, even if that party is a serious and authoritative one, like the United States of America. Such peace is unstable and threatens conflict. The third is that Russia does not want conflict with any country. Russsia does not intend to become isolated. We will develop our friendly relations with Europe, the United States of America, and other countries of the world as much as possible."

"The fourth is the unconditional priority for us to defend the lives and dignity of our citizens, wherever they may be. Our foreign policy shall proceed from this priority. We shall also defend the interests of our business communities abroad," said Dmitry Medvedev, "And it should be clear to everyone that if someone makes aggresive sorties, he will get a response. Finally, the fifth: Russia, like any other country, has regions in which there are their exclusive interests. In these regions are situated countries with which we were traditionally connected by friendship, good-hearted relations, and especially historical relations. We will work very attentively in these regions to develop such friendly relations with these states, with our next-door neighbors. These are the five principles of our foreign policy. The future depends not only on us, but also on our friends, on our partners in the international community. They have a choice."

Putin: On South Ossetia, truth is on our side

2008-08-31T09:51:00.004-04:00

Путин: правда в ситуации вокруг Южной Осетии на нашей стороне

The truth of the situation in South Ossetia is on Russia's side, and Russia is acting within the framework of moral and international laws, stated Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Regarding the tense international situation that has resulted from this problem, he recognized that there was "a lot of emotion." However, "we have not yet seen any practical steps being made which might speak or testify to a cooling of the situation." "I hope that this won't be the case, but in any case, the truth is on our side," stated the Prime Minister.

"We are behaving absolutely morally and within the framework of existing international laws," he continued, "Therefore, if someone from Europe wants to man the guns of someone else's foreign policy interests, please, we can't insist enough." "But I think that, as they say in these situations, charity begins at home, and I think even this rough principle will guide us, and above all, our European partners," emphasized Putin.

Georgia withdraws from Moscow ceasefire agreement

2008-08-30T13:08:00.006-04:00

Грузия вышла из Московского соглашения о прекращении огня

Georgian State Minister for Reintegration Issues Giorgi Iakobaskhvili announced Georgia's withdrawal from the Moscow ceasefire and separation of forces agreement signed on May 14, 1994. According to a press release distributed on August 30, "the Georgian State Minister for Reintegration Issues declares that the Moscow ceasefire and separation of forces agreement signed on May 14, 1994 has lost all relevance."

The statement also noted that this decision was made based on resolutions concerning "the peacekeeping forces deployed on Georgian territory" and "the occupation of Georgian territory by the Russian Federation," which were passed on July 18, 2006 and on August 28, 2008, respectively, by the Georgian Parliament, as well as an extraordinary order of the Georgian government on August 27, 2008. In addition, the Georgian government supports the 6 point Medvedev-Sarkozy peace plan and declares that it should be regarded as the only relevant document concerning Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region.

Russian President: Russia fulfilling all 6 points of Medvedev-Sarkozy

2008-08-30T12:26:00.003-04:00

Российский президент: Россия в полной мере выполняет шесть принципов Медведева - Саркози

President Dmitry Medvedev explained Russia's motives for recognizing the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia to UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown in a phone conversation. The conversation took place at the initiative of Britain, reports an IA Regnum correspondent at the President's press office.

As was noted, when Georgian leader Mikheil Saakashvili unleashed aggressions against the people of South Ossetia, he fundamentally changed the situation of the last 17 years. That is, he ended the ongoing attempts to settle relations between South Ossetia, Abkhazia, and Georgia. It soon became clear that in order to guarantee the safety and security of the South Ossetian and Abkhazian peoples, especially in light of attempts by Saakashvili's regime to remilitarize and his vengeful declarations, immediate intervention was necessary.

At the same time, Dmitry Medvedev emphasized that Russia is fully abiding by the 6 points of the Medvedev-Sarkozy plan. Russia not only supports the presence of OSCE observers, but even supports increasing their numbers. And in the interest of international monitoring of the current Georgian administration, Russia looks forward to maintaining constructive dialogue with the EU, other international organizations, as well as individual countries. During the conversation, the issue of international cooperation was raised. Medvedev confirmed that Russia entirely supports the efforts of the international community in achieving the Millenium Development Goals (MDG) and is eager to participate in sessions of the UN General Assembly on fulfilling MDG.

Saakashvili offers 'Patriot Act'

2008-08-30T08:55:00.001-04:00

The following is from civil.ge:

Saakashvili Offers ‘Patriot Act’

Civil Georgia, Tbilisi / 29 Aug.'08 / 23:12

Saakashvili said late on August 29:
• Russia wants regime change in Georgia;
• ‘Patriot Act’ is needed;
• No civil liberties will be restricted;
• State should resume party funding.

President Saakashvili said on August 29 Georgia needed, what he called, “a patriot act” to deter possible attempts of government overthrow through foreign intervention.

Speaking with the local authorities in the port town of Poti late on August 29, where the Russian forces maintain two outposts, Saakashvili said that Russia’s major goal in Georgia was to overthrow his government.

“It obvious that their goal was not taking over Tskhinvali, which is Georgia’s provincial town - only few people in Russia may know where it is located,” Saakashvili said at the meeting, which was televised live by the Rustavi 2 TV. “Their [Russia’s] goal was to take over Tbilisi and to overthrow the government.”

He said that Russians made it clear even publicly few days ago – apparently referring to the Russian Foreign Ministry’s August 26 statement in which it said “the Saakashvili regime does not at all meet the high standards set by the world community” and added it was sure that “sooner or later” the Georgian people would have “worthy leaders.”

Saakashvili said that he planned to propose the parliament to develop “the patriot act” and added that this new legislature – details of which he did not elaborate – would no way infringe the civil liberties.

“This will be carried out under the condition of maintaining democracy; freedom and liberties,” he added and repeated it for coupe of more times.

He said that the act was needed to prevent “external attempts to destabilize the country.”

The first time when the ruling party politicians started talking about the need for, what they called, “a U.S. Patriot Act-style” legislature, was in the summer, 2006, shortly after the Kodori events.

When some opposition politicians condemned the Georgian forces crack down on rebel warlord Emzar Kvitsiani’s militia groups in the upper Kodori Gorge in July, 2006, they were immediately labeled by the ruling party politicians as traitors. Nika Gvaramia, who is now the Justice Minister, and at that time was a lawmaker, said on July 29, 2006 that the Parliament had to develop “a legislature similar to the one which is in the United States, I mean the Patriot Act… which will be directed against treacherous statements against the motherland.”

The issue, however, was shelved shortly after that and no one has ever raised the matter again up to now.

Also on August 29, President Saakashvili said that the authorities should revise decision on suspending funding of several parties from the state budget.

“We should finance the political parties and impose strict control to prevent any funding coming from the foreign countries – I mean from one particular country,” he said obviously referring to Russia.

In a highly controversial move in July the Parliament passed an amendment to the law that denied six opposition parties, which boycotted the new Parliament, state funding. The move was mainly perceived as a punishment for those opposition parties, which refused to enter into the new Parliament, citing that the May 21 parliamentary elections were rigged.

President Saakashvili said on August 29, that there have been “certain disagreements” over the party funding issue, but these disagreements, he said, should now be removed.

He also said that despite of “some exceptions,” the opposition political groups in general acted in a very appropriate manner at the time of the Russian invasion.

Tskhinvali water supply to be repaired over next two weeks

2008-08-29T14:27:00.004-04:00

Водоснабжение Цхинвала будет налажено в течении двух недель

The water supply of the capital of South Ossetia, Tskhinvali, will be fully restored over the next two weeks, stated Tskhinvali mayor Robert Guliyev at a a press conference at the international press-center "Tskhinvali - 2008." As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, the mayor said that water lines which supply water to Tskhinvali have not yet been repaired.

"There was a small accident which we quickly discovered and it will be taken care of by the end of the day. Besides this, during the bombardment of the city, one of our so-called small tanks, holding around 1500 cubic meters, was damaged. Presently, the North Caucasian brigade is working to restore it and we hope to have it operating again in the near future. Soon, water volume will increase, water pressure will rise, and within two weeks the entire city will be provided with potable water," said Guliyev. According to him, city authorities have signed a contract with Pyatigorsky giving them permission to begin drilling artesian wells in the southern part of the city. "Wells are very important as they are Tskhinvali's water reserves. In the near future, the restoration of other city works will also be addressed," noted the mayor.

CSAMR "SOCIUM" Opinon poll: Russia and West tore Georgia to pieces

2008-08-29T12:57:00.009-04:00

Россия и Запад разорвали Грузию на куски: экспертный опрос ЦСиМИ "SOCIUM"

The Center for Sociological and Marketing Research (CSAMR) "SOCIUM" conducted a research study between August 27-29 of 34 experts from scientific research institutes and faculty of institutes of higher education in Tbilisi.

The [Georgian] experts were asked the following questions: "Do you or do you not support the military operation of the Georgian government 'Clean Fields' in South Ossetia?", "Do you or do you not support the military operation of the Russian army in Georgia 'Compulsion to Peace?'" and "Do you or do you not support the decision by the Russian Federation to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia?"

CSAMR "SOCIUM" received the following responses:

Responses to the question: "Do you or do you not support the military operation of the Georgian government 'Clean Fields' in South Ossetia?"

19 respondents support - 56%

5 do not support - 15%

10 no answer - 29%

Responses to the question: "Do you or do you not support the military operation of the Russian army in Georgia 'Compulsion to Peace?'"

4 respondents support - 12%

23 do not support - 68%

7 no answer - 20%

Responses to the question: "Do you or do you not support the decision by the Russian Federation to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia?"

2 respondents support - 6%

26 do not support - 77%

6 no answer - 17%

Comments from the respondents:

-Russia clearly overstepped its bounds

-Georgia has been broken into pieces by the West and Russia

-Georgia has fallen victim to the Russian-American standoff

-Yes, Georgia truly aspires to NATO membership so that this organization might defend Georgia's sovereignty, and what can Russia do to stop it?

-Russia, unlike many other countries, had enormous leverage on reintegration in Georgia. But for some reason, investments came in from Turkey and America, and not from Russia.

-In Georgia, many of us waited for a reasonable decision from Russia, even in the conditions of extremely confused policy from Saakashvili.

-Georgia does not bear enmity towards the Russian people, but there are a few crude politicians among the ruling elite, first and foremost those who do not understand the situation in the Caucasus.

-Georgia will never come to terms with the annexation of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. This is Georgian soil.

-The conflict between Georgia and Russia can only be decided by our Patriarch; politicians can't do anything.

-Instead of an Orthodox Russia helping an Orthodox Georgia to improve economically, to draw more closely culturally, Russia turns to aggression. We don't take delight in America, but no one will protect us any longer. And we ourselves are in no condition to do it.

-We need Stalin to reconcile the people.

-Russia more than anyone is guilty of the breakup of the Soviet Union, where there were no such large-scale inter-ethnic conflicts. The same Russia is trying to extinguish the fires in the fragments of the late great country like a "bear in a china shop." [a play on words--Medvedev means "son of a bear"]

-Russia could have bought Georgia's economy by means of investments. But this was done by Turkey, America, just not the Russians. But the Russians sent us armies.

-It's clear that the interests of America, NATO, and Russia crossed--and Georgia was held hostage.

-The Georgian leadership handed over its people to the Americans. And it should bear full responsibility for the breakup of Georgia.

-If Saakashvili and his band were adequately eliminated by the Russians, then there wouldn't have been aggressions against South Ossetia.

-It's necessary to remove the Americans, and then everything will fall into place.

-Georgia is not being occupied by the Russians, as Saakashvili is saying everywhere, but rather by NATO led by the US. And even it [NATO] receives funding from them.

Supreme Mufti of Russia calls on the Islamic world to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia

2008-08-29T12:04:00.006-04:00

Верховный муфтий России призвал исламский мир признать независимость Южной Осетии и Абхазии

Chairman of Russia’s Central Muslim Spiritual Directorate Talgat Tajuddin [Tadzhuddin] has called on regional spiritual leaders to render the much needed aid and support to the people of South Ossetia and to all who have suffered in this humanitarian catastrophe on the territory of this republic, says the press committee of the Directorate.

The Supreme Mufti of Russia also called on everyone in the Islamic world to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. "Russian Muslims, just like our compatriots, support Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's decision to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which was done for the peoples of these republics, and we call on the international community and the Islamic world to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia in the name of peace and stability in the Caucasus," stated Tajuddin.

"From the very beginning, the Central Muslim Spiritual Directorate (MSD) of Russia has condemned the perfidious aggressions against South Ossetia by the Georgian leadership, who unleashed full-scale war on a distressed Ossetian people," said Tajuddin, "The blood of Russian peacekeepers, of hundreds and thousands of civilians, women, children, and the defenseless elderly was spilled here. In the ruins of Tskhinvali and in the peaceful settlements, the genocide of an entire people was truly carried out."

"No one can remain indifferent to the suffering of these people," believes the Chief Mufti, "Every community is praying for the dead and for the restoration of peace and calm in this tragic land. The CMSD of Russia and its regional MSDs are directing material aid to inhabitants of South Ossetia."

"We, like all just peoples in the world, cannot accept double standards regarding these events, when a few transoceanic figures try to make our country look like the aggressors and raise tensions," believes Tajuddin, "Russia was and is a guarantor of peace and stability in the Caucasus. Russian peacekeepers were shot in the back while carrying out their virtuous duty."

80% of buildings damaged in Tskhinvali

2008-08-29T11:44:00.004-04:00

В Цхинвале повреждено 80% зданий

80% of all structures in the capital of South Ossetia, Tskhinvali, suffered damage as a result of the Georgian attack on South Ossetia, stated mayor of Tskhinvali Robert Guliyev at a press conference at the international press center "Tskhinvali - 2008." As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, Guliyev noted that "currently, we are working hard to survey all homes." "You know that the city suffered bombardment from "Grad" rocket artillery systems, in addition to mortars and artillery fire. As a result of this, 80% of all available housing in the city suffered damage to roofs; as for the premises themselves, a minimum of 60% were damaged.Virtually all residences in the southern suburbs of the city and virtually all private neighborhoods suffered significant damage," said Guliyev. He said that everything was being done to provide victims with the basic need of temporary housing.

Kokoity to decide how many Russian military bases to be in South Ossetia

2008-08-29T11:27:00.004-04:00

Кокойты решает, сколько российских военных баз будет в Южной Осетии

On September 2, Russia and South Ossetia will sign a treaty of friendship and cooperation between the two states, according to which a Russian military base will be established on South Ossetian territory, reports the speaker of South Ossetia's parliament Znaur Gassiyev. According to Gassiyev, questions of the number and duration of stay of these bases on South Ossetian territory, in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of South Ossetia (RSO), will be left to President Eduard Kokoity.

China understands Russia's motives in recognizing South Ossetia and Abkhazia

2008-08-29T11:15:00.004-04:00

Китай выразил понимание мотивов России, признавшей Южную Осетию и Абхазию

China has been informed of the political motives behind Russia's decision to recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Deputy foreign minister Alexei Borodavkin made the comment regarding the outcome of a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Russia Liu Guchang, reports the Chinese newspaper "People's Daily."

The two parties discussed Abkhazia and South Ossetia's situation after Russia's recognition of their independence. The Chinese have been informed in detail of the political and legal motives for Russia's decision, and they express their understanding.

Russian General Staff: Foreign states supporting Georgia by re-equipping its armies

2008-08-28T12:40:00.009-04:00

Генштаб: Иностранные государства оказывают поддержку Грузии в восстановлении боеспособности её войск

The restoration of Georgia's armed forces is being done with direct support of foreign states. The statement was made today, August 28, at a Moscow briefing by Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

According to Nogovitsyn, the British NGO "HALO Trust", whose mission is to remove mines, trained Georgian mine clearers. And experts from Ukraine provided Georgia with technical services to bring back online the communication systems of Georgia's ground forces.

In contrast, Russia is strictly observing the principles of the resolution of the Georgian-South Ossetian conflict and continues the withdrawal of its forces to their positions, noted the representative of the General Staff.

Putin: War in South Ossetia designed to help US Presidential candidate

2008-08-28T12:21:00.004-04:00

Путин: Война в Южной Осетии была выгодна неким силам в США для создания преимуществ одному из кандидатов в президенты

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin does not exclude the possibility that the Georgian-South Ossetian conflict could have been provoked by certain forces in the US in order to give one of the presidential candidates an advantage. Putin expressed his opinion in an interview with CNN.

"If my guesses turn out to be true, then there is the suspicion that someone in the US specifically created this conflict with the aim to aggravate the situation and give an advantage to one of the US Presidential candidates in this competitive election," stated Putin.

Russian General Staff: Georgian statements that Russia prepared for war well in advance without basis

2008-08-28T11:52:00.004-04:00

Генштаб: Заявление Грузии о том, что Россия заранее готовилась к войне, не имеет под собой оснований

"Statements from Georgia saying that Russia prepared for aggressions against Georgia well in advance are obviously false and have no basis in fact," stated Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, commenting on statements from Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili saying that Russia had been preparing for armed aggressions against Georgia since 2007 and that Georgia has documents to prove it.

As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, Nogovitsyn stated: "Let them show these documents, we're prepared to examine them. But they will turn out to be baseless statements. Let this rest on the conscience of those who make them." He also noted that Russia itself has at its disposal powerful evidence of Georgia's preparations for military operations against South Ossetia and Abkhazia. "Based on valuable articles seized in the war and intelligence from investigations, we are prepared to prove that Georgia prepared for war well in advance and was the first to begin aggressions," stated the representative of the General Staff.

Belarus preparing to recognize independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia

2008-08-28T11:28:00.004-04:00

Белоруссия готовится к признанию независимости Абхазии и Южной Осетии

Minsk will soon support the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The statement was made to journalists in Moscow on August 28 by the ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Russia, Vasily Dolgolyov. According to him, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko will make an announcement of support. "I think most likely today, and if not today, then tomorrow," he said, speaking on when the announcement is likely to occur.

As IA Regnum reported earlier, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko today spoke for the consolidated position of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) on South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and also reaffirmed his alliance with Russia. In a statement to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on August 28, the head of the Belarusian state expressed his opinion that it would be expedient to submit this issue for consideration to the Collective Security Council of the CSTO, whose next session is scheduled for September 5, and to accept the consolidated position of member states.

Lavrov: Russia not urging other countries to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia

2008-08-28T10:53:00.005-04:00

Россия не подталкивает другие страны к признанию независимости Южной Осетии и Абхазии: Лавров

Russia is not actively encouraging other countries to recognize the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Sergey Lavrov, head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made the statement today, August 28. According to him, negotiations are not being conducted on this account. "Unlike some of our Western partners, we prefer each country to think for itself," he emphasized. "We are perfectly aware of trips by American emissaries to other countries and that they are educating them on America's position. Such rudeness does not have a place in our political tradition," declared the minister.

Today at a press conference in Minsk, the Russian ambassador to Belarus Alexander Surikov stated that "Russia is counting on Belarus to recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia." "To recognize or not to recognize their sovereignty--this is the sovereign right of Belarus, but we, to tell the truth, are counting on them as the closest partner of the Russian Federation," noted the diplomat.

Russia proposes that OSCE listen to Bagapsh and Kokoity

2008-08-28T10:40:00.005-04:00

Россия предложила ОБСЕ выслушать Багапша и Кокойты

Russia believes that it would be expedient to invite the leaders of the newly formed states of South Ossetia and Abkhazia to a session of the Permanent Council of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). As Anvar Azimov, permanent representative of Russia to the OSCE, told journalists, this would help create an objective picture of the situation which has arisen in the region. However, the Russian representative expressed doubts that this initiative would be supported by the secretary of the OSCE.

In Rukhi, release of captured Georgian soldiers awaited

2008-08-28T09:27:00.007-04:00

სოფელ რუხში რუსების მიერ დაკავებული ქართველი ჯარისკაცების გათავისუფლებას ელოდებიან

Residents of the village of Rukhi in the Zugdidi region [near Abkhazia] are waiting for the release of Georgian soldiers captured by Russian forces near the Enguri Bridge. According to an "Interpressnews" correspondent, they were to have been released today at 10:00. However, more than an hour later, local authorities are still waiting for their release.

The soldiers have not yet been brought to Rukhi, but according to official sources, it is only a matter of time and they will definitely free them today.

22 Georgian soldiers were captured by Russian occupiers at the port in Poti 10 days ago and they were transfered to the Senaki military base. Later, 12 of them were released. The rest, however, were held prisoner by the Russians in the village of Urta and then the Gali district.

Interpressnews [Georgian news agency]

Dmitry Medvedev: Russia had no choice but to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia

2008-08-28T08:23:00.004-04:00

У России не было иного выбора, кроме как признать независимость Абхазии и Южной Осетии: Дмитрий Медведев

"In consideration of the free will of the Ossetian and Abkhazian peoples and guided by the provisions of the UN Charter and other international documents, I signed a decree on behalf of the Russian Federation recognizing the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia," stated Russian President Dmitry Medvedev today, August 28 in a piece he wrote entitled "The Right to Self-determination: Why I was compelled to recognize the breakaway regions of Georgia," published in the newspaper "Vedomosti."

As Medvedev notes, Russia's decision to recognize the independence "was not easy and was not done without fully appreciating the consequences." The President emphasizes that the potential consequences were weighed against a sober estimation of the situation--the history of the Abkhazian and Ossetian peoples, their freely given support for independence, the tragic consequences of the last few weeks, and the international precedents for similar actions." In his piece, the Russian leader reminds readers that after the breakup of the USSR "Georgia immediately deprived the autonomous regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia of their autonomy. Can you imagine that the Tbilisi government closed the Abkhazian university in Sokhumi because they said that they didn't have a genuine language or history, so what use was a university? Having recently gained independence, Georgia began a vicious war against its own minorities, deprived thousands of people of their homes, and sowed seeds of discontent which would only grow."

In Medvedev's opinion, Western countries certainly had an effect on "the aspirations of South Ossetians and Abkhazians for freedom. They brought themselves closer to Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, whose first step was to destroy the autonomy of yet another region, Adjara." "Western countries," the Russian president reminds readers, "hurried to recognize Kosovo's illegal proclamation of independence from Serbia. We consistently pointed out that after this it would be impossible to explain to Ossetians and Abkhazians (and dozens of other groups in the world) that this was beneficial for Kosovo Albanians, but it would not be beneficial for them. In international relations you cannot have one set of rules for one group and another for the rest."

Dmitry Medvedev emphasizes that Russia had no choice but to introuduce its army onto South Ossetian and Georgian territory after the events of August 7 and 8. "This war was not our choice," emphasizes the president, "we do not have any designs on Georgian territory. Our army entered Georgian territory in order to neutralize those bases which were supporting the attacks, and then they left. We restored peace, but we could not extinguish the South Ossetian and Abkhazian peoples' fear that Saakashvili would continue (with partnership and encouragement from the US and other NATO member countries) to talk of rearming his forces and restoring control over "Georgian territory." The presidents of the two republics appealed to Russia to recognize their independence."

In the conclusion of his piece in "Vedomosti," Medvedev emphasizes that Russia has friendly feelings towards the Georgian people and hopes that Georgia "will one day find leaders who are worthy of them, who will care for their country, and who will establish feelings of mutual respect among all peoples of the Caucasus."

Tskhinvali blog: "Russia recognized us! And next..."

2008-08-27T23:06:00.000-04:00

Нас признала Россия! а что дальше...

The following is a translation of rupor_naroda's most recent livejournal blog post. He appears to be in favor of Russian annexation of South Ossetia. I translated his earlier posts written during the invasion of Tskhinvali earlier this month. They can be found here.

"To be honest, no one believed that they would recognize us. I thought the soonest this could happen would be after 2-3 years. Medvedev has demonstrated will and steadfastness. At last Russia became more decisive. This should have happened a long time ago. From now on, a new chapter begins in the history of Russia and Ossetia. I think the next to recognize South Ossetia will be Belarus, and as a result we will enter into the alliance of Belarus-Russia-South Ossetia. The phase of collecting Russian soil is beginning! Medvedev and Putin--collectors of Russian soil!"

South Ossetia asks Russia to establish military bases on its territory

2008-08-27T13:52:00.001-04:00

Южная Осетия просит Россию разместить на своей территории военные базы

South Ossetia will ask Russia to establish a military base on its territory, stated South Ossetian President Eduard Kokoity at a press conference at the international press-center "Tskhinvali-2008" in the capital of South Ossetia, Tskhinvali.

As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, the president noted that as of now, only Russian peacekeepers and their reinforcements are located on South Ossetian territory. "As for a Russian base, I want to say that I, as president of the recognized government of the Republic of South Ossetia, will request the leadership of the Russian Federation to establish its own military bases on South Ossetian territory," stated Kokoity.

Lavrov: "Moral admonitions from Western colleagues cause of bewilderment"

2008-08-27T13:28:00.001-04:00

Лавров: "Нравоучения западных коллег вызывают недоумение"

"Moral admonitions from Western colleagues regarding Russia's position on South Ossetia and Abkhazia are a cause of bewilderment," stated head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov to journalists on August 27. The head of the foreign policy department of the Russian Federation thus made it clear that Moscow was open to dialogue with the West.

Speaking about some of the statements coming from Western governments concerning Russia's recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Lavrov stated that "they are not factual and fail to address the issue from which all of this began." "They completely ignore the reality that we lost thousands of innocent civilians and peacekeepers who were operating with the support of the OSCE," emphasized Lavrov.

Shevardnadze: Russia rescued Saakashvili

2008-08-27T12:06:00.000-04:00

Шеварднадзе: Россия спасла Саакашвили

By its latest actions, Russia has boosted the ratings of President Mikhail Saakashvili and rescued him from the fallout of the egregious mistake, for which he is responsible, of beginning "unprepared military actions against so-called South Ossetia," stated ex-president of Georgia Eduard Shevardnadze on August 27 at a press conference in Tbilisi.

According to Shevardnadze, the categorical statements of the Russian leadership addressed to Saakashvili have boosted his ratings in Georgia "by ten fold," as the nature of a Georgian does not tolerate meddling in his affairs. "By recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Russia actually rescued Saakashvili from the fallout in Georgia itself of the egregious mistake he made of beginning military actions against so-called South Ossetia." In the opinion of the ex-president, as a result of this new turn of events, the US and Russia are not ready for a change of leadership in Georgia as they are now too busy resolving much more important issues.

First President of Abkhazia congratulates Abkhaz people on recognition of independence

2008-08-27T11:02:00.000-04:00

Первый президент Абхазии поздравил народ с днем признания Независимости

The first president of Abkhazia Vladislav Ardzinba congratulated the people of Abkhazia on their recognition of independence. Here is his full statement of congratulations:

"My dear compatriots! The day August 26, 2008 will forever be remembered in the history of our country as a major milestone marking this truly epoch-making event--the recognition of the independence of the Republic of Abkhazia. In order to realize a century of expectations and hopes that our people might one day know free existence and development, we had to endure the distressful and thorny road of national-liberation struggle. The burden of this heavy ordeal has been carried on the shoulders of many generations for the sake of freedom and independence. Many true patriots of our homeland have sacrificed their lives for this sacred struggle. During 1992 and 1993, when the Georgian aggressors tried to destroy our statehood, hundreds, thousands of worthy sons of the Abkhaz people stood up to defend our Fatherland. And in this struggle we were aided by many volunteers from our sister republics in the North Caucasus. The South of Russia, our foreign compatriots. The domestic war of the Abkhaz people ended with the exile of the Georgian occupiers from the territory of our republic. We admire the memory of everyone who put their lives before the altar of victory!

Today, the multinational people of Abkhazia celebrate one more great victory. We are inspired by the courageous and wise decision made by the political leadership of Russia. The declaration of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Anatolevich Medvedev recognizing South Ossetia and Abkhazia is in full accordance with international laws and norms. I am confident that soon we will hear of similar decisions from a number of other states. From the bottom of my heart I congratulate the people of Abkhazia and our brothers in South Ossetia, who endured all the horrors of Georgian aggression, on this long-awaited victory. Abkhazians and Ossetians are ancient indigenous ethnic groups of the Caucasus whose history and culture go back a long ways. Their right to sovereignty and political self-determination is supported by the centuries-old tradition of statehood. I warmly congratulate the peoples of the Republic of Abkhazia and the Republic of South Ossetia on the recognition of independence! I pray for peace and prosperity for our states. Peace, stability, and well-being for the entire Caucasus and Russian Federation!

Kokoity: "Not all Georgians infected with nationalism and fascism"

2008-08-27T10:27:00.000-04:00

Кокойты: "Не весь грузинский народ заражен национализмом и фашизмом"

The recognition of the independence of South Ossetia has been supported by many ordinary and sound-minded Georgians in Georgia itself and in Russia. The statement was made by South Ossetian President Eduard Kokoity at a press conference in the international press center "Tskhinvali - 2008." As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, Kokoity made it clear that his speech was not about the Georgian authorities.

"Georgia's reaction absolutely does not interest me; the reaction of the Georgian people interests me. After the President of Russia signed the decree recognizing the Republic of South Ossetia, many Georgians from Georgia and Russia called me with words of thanks and congratulations. This speaks to the truth that not all Georgians are infected with nationalism and fascism, not all Georgians support the irresponsible politics which the Georgian leadership has been conducting, which could drag the international community and the US into a very serious stalemate if they don't change their present course," said the president. He expressed his condolences for the families and those close to the soldiers and officers "who carried out the orders of the criminal leadership of Georgia and were killed here in street battles in Tskhinvali." "The Georgian leadership is responsible, as are those who support Georgia, who armed Georgia, and who trained these soldiers to kill. Georgia should realize its tragic mistakes, for the sake of its own people and for its own sovereignty," noted Kokoity.

Russian General Staff: Georgia once again violates South Ossetian air space

2008-08-27T09:59:00.000-04:00

Генштаб: Грузинская сторона снова нарушила воздушное пространство Южной Осетии

The Russian Ministry of Defense is accusing Georgia of violating South Ossetian air space. As Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, said in a press conference, on August 26, peacekeepers stationed in the conflict zone observed an unmanned Georgian drone, reports an IA Regnum correspondent. The aircraft remained within the area which is under Russian responsibility for around 30 minutes. Nogovitsyn explained that the drone entered the territory of South Ossetia from the south and headed northwards.

This path precisely follows the route of peacekeeping forces, said the deputy chief of the General Staff. In Nogovitsyn's words, Tbilisi's latest actions demonstrate that Georgia does not intend to exclude the possibility of future aggression. Russia, on the other hand, is fulfilling its obligations and continues to withdraw its divisions from the region to their places of permanent deployment in the Russian Federation.

Russian General Staff: Russian Black Sea Fleet tracking NATO ships

2008-08-27T09:21:00.000-04:00

Генштаб: Корабли Черноморского флота РФ приступили к слежению за действиями натовских кораблей в Черном море

Naval vessels of the Russian Black Sea Fleet continue to carry out the task of securing Abkhazia's coast. The statement was made at a Moscow press conference by Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

According to Nogovitsyn, as a result of the recent increase of NATO member country vessels in the Black Sea, the Russian fleet has begun to track the movements of these ships.

Nogovitsyn reminded journalists that in 1936, a convention [i.e. the Montreux Convention] was established concerning the status of the Black Sea. This document defines the number of naval vessels and duration of their stay for countries who do not have territory bordering the Black Sea. According to this convention, NATO can no longer continue to increase its fleet on the Black Sea. The maximum tonnage of these ships is not to exceed 45 thousand tons. The maximum duration of stay in the Black Sea is 21 days, after which a rotation must take place.

Georgia claims it doesn't have control over 31 villages in Didi and Patara Liakhvi Gorge

2008-08-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

Грузия заявила, что не контролирует 31 село Большого и Малого Лиахвского ущелья

Georgian law enforcement agencies do not have control in 31 villages in Didi [Greater] and Patara [Lesser] Liakhvi Gorge, owing to the fact that residents cannot return to their own homes. This story is being carried in the Georgian media.

Refugees from the gorge are camped out in 50 tents set up in the center of Gori and in kindergartens. It is estimated that 5,000 people are living in the tent city; tomorrow, the International Red Cross will provide them with a cafateria. By evening, electricity will be provided.

Medvedev: "A new era for Georgia"

2008-08-26T21:58:00.000-04:00

Медведев: "Для Грузии наступают новые времена"

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev gave an interview to the French television company TF-1. Answering a question whether or not the recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Russia is an indication of "Russia's return to imperial tactics, the return of the empire," and if it "limits" the sovereignty of Georgia, he said:

"Empires, as a rule, aren't revived, and to grieve about the imperial past is a serious error... I believe that Georgia should be a normal, full-fledged state. As for its sovereignty, that, naturally, is a difficult question, and it will be ultimately defined by its relations with its neighbors. But after what has happened, the situation has of course changed, and in this sense, Georgia is entering a new era. Georgia, it seems to me, should draw certain conclusions from what has happened: it is a serious lesson of how it is necessary to build relations with your next-door neighbors and with the peoples who once were a part of Georgia."

Shots ring out for half hour near villages in lower part of Gali district

2008-08-26T12:47:00.001-04:00

გალის რაიონის დაბალი ზონის სოფლებში დაახლოებით ნახევარი საათის განმავლობაში ინტენსიური სროლის ხმა ისმოდა

Gunfire lasting approximately half an hour was heard in villages in the lower part of the Gali district.

As it was later determined, the fire came from representatives of the Abkhazian armed forces. They were drunk, celebrating the signing of a decree recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.

Currently, no gun shots are being heard, but in spite of this, residents are choosing to leave the area.

Interpressnews [Georgian news agency]

Russian General Staff: Georgia planned to take Abkhazia via South Ossetia

2008-08-26T11:58:00.000-04:00

Генштаб РФ: Грузия через Южную Осетию планировала захватить Абхазию

Georgia planned to attack Abkhazia if its campaign in Tskhinvali succeeded. The statement was made today, August 26, at a Moscow press conference by Anatoly Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

According to Nogovitsyn, valuable maps, which evidently demonstrate preparations to take Abkhazia by force, came into the possession of the Russian army. As the general told reporters, the operation was intended to be carried out in one day. Following day one, according to Nogovitsyn's sources, the command of the Georgian forces planned to leave for the city of New Athos and then to occupy the capital of the republic, Sokhumi. Nogovitsyn drew attention to the detail that artillery bombardment should precede any ground invasion. The signal for commencement of operations, or 'H-hour,' would have been dawn, from which the operation took its name--'Morning Dawn,'" said Nogovitsyn. But, according to Nogovitsyn, the Georgian leadership did not go ahead with the forceful resolution of the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict only because the blitzkrieg in South Ossetia failed. "Thanks to the courage of the Russian peacekeepers, the actions of South Ossetia's top brass, and the decision to introduce divisions of the 58th army into the conflict zone, we managed to prevent Georgian aggression against Abkhazia," said Anatoly Nogovitsyn.

Mikhail Gorbachev: Recognition of Abkhazian and South Ossetian independence -- "Saakashvili's fault"

2008-08-26T11:40:00.000-04:00

Признание независимости Абхазии и Южной Осетии - "на совести президента Саакашвили": Михаил Горбачев

Russia's recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is the consequence of the Georgian leadership's aggressive actions against the people of South Ossetia. The statement was made today, August 26, on TV news channel "Vesti" by ex-president of the USSR Mikhail Gorbachev.

Gorbachev believes that Dmitry Medvedev's decision was made in light of the events of the past few weeks in Tskhinvali. "All of this is a result of those events, everything lies on the conscience of President Saakashvili, the Georgian leadership," said the ex-president of the USSR.

Earlier IA Regnum reported that on August 26, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed a decree recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. [Read Medvedev's speech here]

Sergey Lavrov: "By so acting, Tbilisi surrendered its claim to territorial integrity"

2008-08-26T10:45:00.000-04:00

"Действия Тбилиси поставили крест на территориальной целостности Грузии": Сергей Лавров

"By so acting, Tbilisi surrendered Georgia's claim to territorial integrity," stated Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov today, August 26. Lavrov believes that Russia had no choice but to recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

"Georgia demonstrated its unwillingness to abide by agreements, but Russia did not give in to provocation and continued to search for a compromise," noted the head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As "Vesti" reports, Lavrov reminded viewers that historical Ossetians, Abkhazians, and Georgians lived together in one body in the framework of another state--at first the Russian Empire, and then the Soviet Union. After the breakup, the autonomous republics had the right to determine their own status.

Dmitry Medvedev: Russia not afraid of cold war, but hopes for understanding from the West

2008-08-26T10:26:00.000-04:00

Россия не боится холодной войны, но надеется на понимание Запада: Дмитрий Медведев

Russia is not frightened by the possibility of the beginning of a "cold war," but neither is she aspiring to it. The statement was made today, August 26, by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in an interview with Russia Today, commenting on the possible fallout from recognizing Abkhazia and South Ossetia. "Nothing frightens us, including the prospect of a cold war. But we don't want one, and in this situation, everything depends on the position of our partners," he noted.

In Medvedev's opinion, the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia was recognized in complete accordance with international law. "Each case of recognition is by nature a unique one. The particular situation of Kosovo, the particular situation of South Ossetia and Abkhazia," emphasized the president. "If the West wants to preserve good relations with Russia, they will understand the reason for our decision."

"Russia has completely fulfilled its 6-point obligations under the so-called 'Sarkozy-Medvedev' peace plan," the head of state reminded viewers. "Our armies have withdrawn from Georgia, except from the so-called safety strip."

[Read Medvedev's speech on recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia]

Sokhumi and Tskhinvali celebrate new independence

2008-08-26T09:38:00.000-04:00

Сухуми и Цхинвали празднуют выстраданную независимость

Residents of Abkhazia and South Ossetia greeted Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's announcement of the recognition of the independence of these republics with joy. The capitals of both countries have turned into improvised stages for mass gatherings. People are congratulating one another, many of them with tears in their eyes. Leaders have joined the people. The people are waiting for President Sergey Bagapsh.

A few minutes ago, the president of Russia signed a decree recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. In Medvedev's words, "Saakashvili chose genocide as the solution to his own political problems." "Russia stepped in to stop the destruction of the Ossetian and Abkhaz people. Russia showed patience and equanimity. We repeatedly called for a return to the negotiations table," stated Medvedev, noting that these appeals were ignored both by NATO and the UN.

[Read Medvedev's speech in full]

Deputy Foreign Minister of Georgia: "Russia annexed Abkhazia and South Ossetia"

2008-08-26T09:34:00.000-04:00

"Россия аннексировала Абхазию и Южную Осетию": замглавы МИД Грузии

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia amounts to the annexation of Georgian territory, stated the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Giga Bokeria, reports Reuters. "This is the open annexation of territories which are part of Georgia," he said.

Russia officially recognizes independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, calls on others to follow example

2008-08-26T08:18:00.000-04:00

Россия официально признала независимость Абхазии и Южной Осетии и призвала страны мира последовать ее примеру

The following is a complete transcript [translated by me] of the speech made by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who today, August 26, approved the recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The transcript is taken from the President's official site.

"Dear citizens of Russia!

You, of course, know of the tragedy in South Ossetia. The night attack by the Georgian army on Tskhinvali left hundreds of our peaceful citizens dead. Russian peacekeepers died performing their duty of protecting women, children, and the elderly to the very end.

The Georgian leadership, in violation of the UN Charter, of its own obligations according to international agreements, senselessly unleashed a conflict whose victims became civilians. The same fate awaited Abkhazia. Obviously, Tbilisi was counting on a blitzkrieg which would present the international community with a fait accompli. The most inhumane way was chosen to achieve this goal--to annex South Ossetia through the destruction of an entire people.

This was not the first attempt. In 1991, President of Georgia Gamsakhurdia with the slogan "Georgia for Georgians"--just think about these words--ordered the storming of Sokhumi and Tskhinvali. Thousands killed, tens of thousands made refugees, villages leveled--that is what happened then. It was Russia who stepped in to stop the destruction of the Abkhazian and South Ossetian people. Our country became the intermediary and the peacekeeper, striving to reach a political solution. Accordingly, we began with the recognition of Georgia's territorial integrity.

The Georgian leadership chose a different path. The breakdown of talks, ignoring agreements once reached, political and military provocations, attacks on peacekeepers -- all of this contributed to the breakdown of the framework of operations established with the support of the UN and OSCE.

Russia showed patience and equanimity. We repeatedly called for a return to the negotiations table, and we did not abandon our position even after Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence. But our persistent requests to the Georgians to agree to the non-use of force against Abkhazia and South Ossetia went unanswered. Unfortunately, they were ignored by NATO and even the UN.

Now it is clear: a peaceful resolution to the conflict was never a part of Tbilisi's plan. The Georgian leadership methodically prepared for war, and the political and material support they received from their Western patrons only served to strengthen their sense of impunity.

On the evening of August 8, 2008, Tbilisi made its choice. Saakashvili chose genocide as the solution to his own political problems. In doing so, he eliminated all hope of peaceful co-existence of Ossetians, Abkhazians, and Georgians in one state. The people of South Ossetia and Abkhazia repeatedly expressed in referenda their support for the independence of their own republics. We understand that, after what has occurred in Tskhinvali and what was planned for Abkhazia, they have the right to determine their own destiny.

The Presidents of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, based on the results of referenda and at the request of their parliaments, appealed to Russia to recognize the sovereignty of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The Federation Council and the State Duma [of Russia] voted to support these appeals.

In view of this situation, it is necessary to make a decision. In consideration of the free will of the Ossetian and Abkhaz people, guided by the provisions of the UN Charter, by the 1970 Declaration on Principles of International Law Concerning Friendly Relations Between States, and the 1975 CSCE Helsinki Accords, and by other foundational international documents, I have signed a decree on behalf of the Russian Federation recognizing the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Russia calls on other states to follow her lead. It is not an easy decision, but it is the only way to protect the lives of people."

Patriarch of Georgia asks Russia not to ratify independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia

2008-08-25T17:48:00.000-04:00

Грузинский патриарх просит Россию не узаконивать независимость Южной Осетии и Абхазии

Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II has requested the leadership of Russia "not to ratify" the resolution passed by the Russian parliament "concerning the Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali regions."

In his statement, the head of the Georgian Orthodox Church particularly said : "For the welfare and future of the two countries, the Cathlicos-Patriarch of all Georgia requests the President and Prime Minister of Russia not to ratify the resolution passed by the Federation Council and State Duma, as it is lacking any legal or historical basis," reports ITAR-TASS.

In the next two days, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev could sign the resolution recognizing the independence and sovereignty of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Immediately after Russia, Iran, Belarus, Venezuela, Cuba, Syria, and a couple dozen other states will also recognize the republics.

On August 25, the State Duma of the Russian Federation, at an extraordinary plenary session, passed a resolution urging the President of Russia to recognize the independence of the Republics of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Several hours earlier, a similar resolution was passed by the Federation Council of the Russian Federation.

IA Regnum

South Ossetia: We did not violate territorial integrity of Georgia

2008-08-25T12:50:00.000-04:00

Южная Осетия: Мы не нарушали территориальной целостности Грузии

South Ossetia has never violated the territorial integrity of Georgia, stated South Ossetian Minister of Foreign Affairs Murat Jioev at an international press conference in the South Ossetian capital, Tskhinvali. As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, Jioev noted that in its struggle for independence, South Ossetia has always adhered to international standards.

"In the breakup of the Soviet Union, many new states were created, including the Republic of South Ossetia, and it is not any fault of South Ossetia that this was the case. From the very beginning, we have put the facts before us and have had to find political and legal substantiations of our independence. I assure you that during all these years, we have never once done anything in violation of international law. However, Georgia has only responded to our legal actions with aggression and infringements on our rights," noted the minister. He also reminded reporters that in 1990 Georgian authorities repealed all legislation which had been passed during the Soviet Union, "that is, they abolished the entire legislative record by which South Ossetia had been included in the Georgian SSR." Jioev noted that on February 19, 1992 a referendum was held in which 99% of voters favored the independence of South Ossetia and that on May 19, 1992 South Ossetia declared its independence. "Let me be clear: we have not violated the territorial integrity of the Georgian State, as Georgia itself repealed all legislation by which South Ossetia was included in the Georgian SSR. And during the period of the independent Georgian state between 1918-1922, South Ossetia was not part of Georgia," asserted the minister.

IA Regnum

Georgian army concentrating forces near Kodori Gorge

2008-08-25T11:51:00.000-04:00

Грузинские войска концентрируются в направлении Кодорского ущелья

The Georgian army is concentrating forces near the Kodori Gorge. The statement was made by Deputy Minister of Defense of Abkhazia Anatoliy Zaitsev. According to him, there eight thousand men have already gathered.

More precisely, there are two groups, consisting of six and two thousand persons. Zaitsev noted that Abkhazia was prepared to face any possible aggression. At the same time he said that the armed forces would not be reinforced in accordance with the ceasefire. Zaitsev believes that this most recent activity is a result of Georgia's desire to seek revenge. "Georgia has unequivocally declared that it will not accept defeat and will do all it can to regain its lost positions," he emphasized. Anatoliy Zaitsev did not give the date of a possibly military strike, repeating that Abkhazia was fully prepared to fend them off.

IA Regnum

Refugees being forced to return to Gori, government "frivolous", says Georgian opposition

2008-08-25T11:00:00.000-04:00

Грузинская оппозиция: беженцев возвращают в Гори насильно, а правительство Грузии "несерьезно"

The Georgian leadership does not appreciate the importance of the issue of the recognition of independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Russia with due seriousness, stated "New Rights" party leader David Gamkrelidze at a press conference. In Gamkrelidze's words, concrete steps which Georgia has not yet taken are necessary. Diplomatic ties should be severed with Russia and all other countries recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia; the peace-keeping mandate of the Russian army should be abolished; and the divisions of the Russian army which remain in the republic should be given the status of occupiers.

The leader of "New Rights" believes that Georgia should also press the UN to evaluate Russia's actions harshly and levy sanctions against Moscow. "Members of the G8 should revoke Russia's membership. The US should pressure Moscow, including by putting visa restrictions on its citizens. The EU should consider excluding Russia."

He noted that if Tbilisi fails to achieve these objectives, then any attempt to defend the territorial integrity of the country by diplomatic measures will fail. Gamkrelidze also noted that the Georgian leadership was forcibly returning refugees to Gori, without providing any security guarantees. "Those who wish to return to Gori shall, but the rest should stay where they are," noted the leader of "New Rights."

Some residents of Gori, afraid of being forcibly returned to the city, have fled to Armenia, and are seeking the services of accredited embassies in Yerevan to find refuge in a third state.

IA Regnum

Residents of South Ossetia and Abkhazia rejoice, await Russian president's decision

2008-08-25T10:13:00.000-04:00

Жители Южной Осетии и Абхазии ликуют и ожидают решения президента России

An atmosphere of jubilation reigns in South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The citizens of these republics are celebrating the recognition of independence won by blood. On August 25, the Council of the Federation and the State Duma of Russia recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

The proceedings of the Russian State Duma were broadcast live over loudspeakers in the theater square in Tskhinvali. As an IA Regnum correspondent reports, it is strange to see the celebrations against a backdrop of ruins. The residents of the republic gathered on what remained of the square after the Georgian invasion and drove through the streets of Tskhinvali waving South Ossetian flags.

In the capital of Abkhazia, people are congratulating one another. Music and high spirits can be found everywhere.

IA Regnum

Russian president could sign recognition of independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in next two days

2008-08-25T09:45:00.000-04:00

Президент России может подписать решение о признании Абхазии и Южной Осетии в ближайшие два дня

In the next two days, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev could sign a decree recognizing the independence and sovereignty of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, reports an IA Regnum source in the Caucasus. According to this source, immediately after Russia's recognition, Iran, Belarus, Venezuela, Cuba, Syria, and a couple dozen other states will also recognize the republics.

It is worth noting that as of today, Kosovo, which unilaterally proclaimed its own independence from Serbia, has been recognized by only 43 states.

Earlier today, the Russian State Duma, during an extraordinary plenary session, supported an appeal to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to recognize the independence of the republics of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. The resolution passed unanimously. Russian MPs have called on legislators of UN member states and international parliamentary organizations to support the recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia as autonomous, sovereign, and independent states, adding that the recent armed aggression by Georgia against South Ossetia makes it necessary.
A few hours earlier, a similar appeal was made to the Russian president by the Council of the Federation.

IA Regnum

Georgian special forces carrying out sabotage in Leningori

2008-08-25T08:51:00.000-04:00

Грузинский спецназ осуществляет диверсии в Ленингорском районе Южной Осетии

According to the South Ossetian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Georgian armed forces are concentrated near the Leningori region of South Ossetia. Fire from a Georgian special forces unit occasionally falls on Ossetian villages, but there have been no casualties. Nevertheless, fearing the saboteurs, many residents have left their homes for the forest.

South Ossetian law enforcement agencies have deployed additional forces to the region to prevent any sabotage.

IA Regnum

Russian General Staff: Georgia prepared for military operation against South Ossetia

2008-08-25T08:40:00.000-04:00

Генштаб РФ: Грузия готовила военную операцию в отношении Абхазии

The Russian military has new evidence that Georgia was preparing for aggressions against Abkhazia. The statement was made on August 25 at a Moscow press conference by Anatoliy Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

According to Nogovitsyn, the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces has received solid evidence of Georgian plans to resolve the Georgian-Abkhazian conflict by force. "Currently, this information is being processed. At the briefing on August 26, a detailed plan of Georgian agression against Abkhazia will be revealed to journalists," said Nogovitsyn.

IA Regnum

Georgian Parliament extends state of war until September 8

2008-08-23T11:46:00.000-04:00

Парламент Грузии продлил военное положение до 8 сентября

The Parliament of Georgia today, August 23, during a special session extended the state of war in the country for another 15 days--until September 8, reports an IA Regnum correspondent. The general consensus among the MPs is that the state of war should be in effect until Russian forces pullback to their previous positions.

The state of war was put into effect in Georgia on August 9, originally intended to last 15 days (until August 24), as a result of fighting on its territory. The parliament says Russia's actions amount to "armed aggression" and "the occupation of territories." The MPs don't exclude the possibility that the state of war could be further extended, noting that it all depends on Russia's next steps.

IA Regnum

Series of explosions in center of Tskhinvali

2008-08-23T11:35:00.000-04:00

В центре Цхинвала произошла серия взрывов

Several strong explosions took place today, August 23, in Tskhinvali near camps set up by employees of the Russian Ministry for Emergency Situations and the Central Republican Hospital. As ITAR-TASS reports, it is believed that a weapons warehouse or munitions depot blew up. According to the news agency, fire engines have departed for the scene of the incident.

Journalists are also stationed near the stockpiles of seized weapons where the explosions took place.

IA Regnum

Georgia fires on two regions in South Ossetia

2008-08-23T10:37:00.000-04:00

Грузия обстреляла два района Южной Осетии

Settlements in two regions of South Ossetia came under Georgian fire today. The radio station "Echo of Moscow" was informed of the incident by Irina Gagloeva, head of the South Ossetian Press and Information Committee.

On August 10, Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili gave a ceasefire order in the Georgian-Ossetian conflict zone.

IA Regnum

Expert: Russia to do everything to ensure that independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia recognized by at least 50 countries

2008-08-23T08:55:00.000-04:00

Россия сделает все, чтобы независимость Абхазии и Южной Осетии признали по крайней мере 50 стран: эксперт

Head of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov has statemed that Russian recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia will depend on Georgia's next steps. Saakashvili was most recently warned not to cooperate with NATO; however, the Georgian leadership will most likely not change its politics. Ara Papyan, former Armenian Ambassador to Canada and director of the analytical center Modus Vivendi, stated the following in a conversation with an IA Regnum correspondent: "Russia will do everything so that the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is recognized by around 50 countries, at least as many as for Kosovo," he emphasized.

Papyan expressed the opinion that Armenia should hold a neutral position concerning the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, noting that the validity of the independence of Karabakh depends not only on the principle of a nation's right to self-determination, but also on the decision that was made by the League of Nations to demarcate the Armenian-Azerbaijan border along ethnic lines. The expert also emphasized that, in any case, the precedent of an independent Abkhazia and South Ossetia will help solve the Karabakh conflict.

The expert stated that the annexation of Karabakh, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia by either Azerbaijan or Georgia made them "captured territories" in violation of international law. He also noted that the Soviet states were never recogized individually by the international community and that the USSR itself wasn't recognized until 1924. Therefore, in the opinion of this political scientist, the annexation of Karabakh by Azerbaijan and Abkhazia and South Ossetia by Georgia is in violation of international law. He also emphasized that the internal borders of the republics after the formation of the USSR did not create separate states, but simply marked administrative boundaries and hence are not subject to international law.

IA Regnum

Russian General Staff: Saakashvili has lost right to dictate conditions

2008-08-22T18:03:00.000-04:00

Генштаб ВС РФ: Саакашвили потерял право диктовать условия

The active participation of Western nations in modernizing the Georgian army was a powerful impetus for Tbilisi to unleash its aggression against South Ossetia. The view was expressed today at a Moscow press conference by Anatoliy Nogovitsyn, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, reports an IA Regnum correspondent.

He noted that during Mikhail Saakashvili's presidency, the process of re-equipping the national armed forces became a large scale affair. In two years--from 2006 through 2007--the Georgian army doubled in size, and the defense budget grew to $900 million. According to Nogovitsyn, despite existing international agreements banning the delivery of offensive arms to countries involved in conflicts, a number of Western governments have delivered such arms to Georgia. 40% of Georgia's military technology is classified as "offensive." Russia has repeatedly expressed concern over the rapid militarization and has tried to draw the attention of the international community to this. However, arms continued to be delivered to Georgia.

As the high-ranking official of the General Staff said, Western partners have often called on us to observe treaties concerning ordinary armed forces in Europe; however they believe that they themselves can ignore them. Nogovitsyn particularly emphasized that Georgia had prepared for a military campaign against South Ossetia. As proof, he displayed war maps, which had fallen into Russian hands. They show in detail the first stage of an armed conflict with South Ossetia. A simulation of the operation was carried out on April 24 of this year, during which Georgian commanders drew the movements of their divisions on the maps. According to Nogovitsyn, after what has taken place, Russia will not be asking the Georgian leadership where it can install peacekeeping posts, and where it cannot. "Saakashvili has broken the agreements, having given the order to begin aggressions, and now he doesn't have the moral right to dictate conditions," said the deputy chief of the General Staff.

IA Regnum

US Ambassador supports Russia's move

2008-08-22T11:29:00.000-04:00

Посол США в России сдвигает границы грузинской агрессии

US Ambassador to Russia John Beyrle believes that Russia was absolutely well founded in its decision to respond to Georgian attacks on Russian peacekeepers, which the US had tried to dissuade Georgia from doing "up until the last minute." His point of view contradicts Washington's, which from the very beginning characterized the conflict in South Ossetia as Russian military aggression against Georgia. "We see that the Russian army was well founded in its response to attacks on Russian peacekeepers in South Ossetia. But now these forces have crossed onto Georgian soil, and the territorial integrity of Georgia is under threat. Now we are encouraging Russia to abide by the agreements of the ceasefire and withdraw its forces from Georgian territory," stated the diplomat in an interview with "Kommersant."

In Beyrle's opinion, there is a role for international peacekeepers in South Ossetia, but that this should occur at a later stage. "Now it is important for Russia to abide by the 6-point peace plan, which was signed by all parties of the conflict. The sooner Russian forces head for their pre-conflict positions, the sooner we can introduce international observers into the conflict zone, and thereby international peacekeepers, and then we can begin to settle the conflicts," added Beyrle.

The diplomat believes that the process of resolving the conflicts between Georgia and South Ossetia and Abkhazia "should begin with the recognition of the territorial integrity of Georgia within the limits of its international borders." At the same time, he added, "the principle of self-determination of nations should also be considered."

However, Beyrle believes that the conflicts in Georgia cannot be resolved according to the principles of Kosovo. "Our position is that Kosovo was a special case which cannot serve as a precedent," he emphasized. Concerning the December NATO summit where Georgia's request to recieve Membership Action Plan (MAP) status will be considered, the ambassador noted that the decision will rely heavily on how Russia respects its promises and how soon it withdraws its armies. "Georgia's performance will also play a role."

Beyrle is confident that the conflict in Georgia will not seriously affect economic ties between Russia and the US and will not harm Russia's prospects of joining the WTO.

According to the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev, all Russian military units, making way for an international peacekeeping contingent, will begin to withdraw from Georgian territory to South Ossetia on August 22 at 6 am.

IA Regnum

Eduard Kokoity: Recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia would help bring about peace in Caucasus

2008-08-22T10:52:00.000-04:00

Эдуард Кокойты: Признание Южной Осетии и Абхазии будет способствовать миру на Кавказе

The President of South Ossetia believes that, in the near future, all the appeals from his country will find sufficient support and consideration from the President, Council of the Federation, and State Duma of Russia. The statement was made by South Ossetian President Eduard Kokoity at a session of parliament where an appeal was made to Russia and to world leaders to "recognize the independence of the Republic of South Ossetia."

He noted that he didn't want to sound too optimistic, but that he believes that "our appeals will be supported by the leaders of many countries in the future." "The recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia can only bring about peace in the Caucasus," he noted. The president thanked delegates of all parties, who, for the 18 years of the existence of the republic, had labored so that South Ossetia might one day be recognized by the international community as an independent state. "The current generation of our people, all defenders of the Fatherland, can be assured that their names have been written in gold in the history of Ossetia and that they will be remembered with pride by future generations," noted Eduard Kokoity.

IA Regnum