Although Russia itself does not pose threat to Georgia, but the situation in the country’s North Caucasus region, where pro-Chechen rebels are acting is really threatening Tbilisi, Defense Minister Irakli Okruashvili was quoted by local TV channel Rustavi 2 as saying.
“Russia is not deemed to be a threat. It is certain events in Russia and certain trends that may develop in Russia that are deemed to be a threat. For example, the situation in the North Caucasus. If we speak realistically, it is indeed a threat to us. There are certain other aspects that may exist in Russia, but the country itself is not viewed as a threat,” the minister cited his own report at a conference held at the ski resort of Gudairi.
However, the minister also said that the new Georgian military strategy will station Russian military bases and Russian peacekeepers among threats to Georgia’s national security.
Russian peacekeepers have been deployed in South Ossetia and Abkhazia since South Ossetia began running its own affairs in 1992. Abkhazia broke away the following year. Both regions border Russia and have enjoyed close ties with Moscow, which has granted Russian citizenship to many of their residents.
After Moscow and Tbilisi struck a deal earlier this year, under which Russia would withdraw its military bases from Georgia in 2008, the problem of breakaway regions remains the most painful issue in bilateral relations.
Acknowledgement: All available information and documents in "Justice For North Caucasus Group" is provided for the "fair use". There should be no intention for ill-usage of any sort of any published item for commercial purposes and in any way or form. JFNC is a nonprofit group and has no intentions for the distribution of information for commercial or advantageous gain. At the same time consideration is ascertained that all different visions, beliefs, presentations and opinions will be presented to visitors and readers of all message boards of this site. Providing, furnishing, posting and publishing the information of all sources is considered a right to freedom of opinion, speech, expression, and information while at the same time does not necessarily reflect, represent, constitute, or comprise the stand or the opinion of this group. If you have any concerns contact us directly at:
eagle@JusticeForNorthCaucasus.com