The Georgian test
In: International affairs: a Russian journal of world politics, diplomacy and international relations, Band 50, Heft 5
ISSN: 0130-9641
The political and economic challenges facing the nation of Georgia, as well as its relationships with the US and Russia, are detailed. Attempts by Georgia's government to cultivate close relations with both the US and Russia are discussed. However, it is noted that Georgia's leaders have displeased Russia and the US. It is argued that Georgia has displeased the US by attacking rebels in the Georgian region of South Ossetia, thereby destabilizing the southern Caucasus region and an important oil pipeline. Meanwhile, Georgia has failed to resolve several issues affecting its relationship with Russia, including the problem of international terrorists using Georgia as a safe haven and the future of Russian military bases in Georgia. Attempts by Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili to create and solve crises in South Ossetia and the republic of Adjaria are described as unhelpful for Georgia. Saakashvili's actions towards Adjaria and South Ossetia are portrayed as threatening to US and Russian interests. It is suggested that Russia should seek to defuse the conflicts. Georgia's economy is described as deteriorating and in need of additional Russian investment.