The key indicator in this affair is Sweden. They are NOT nato. They responded first with the strongest allegation still. Russia is proving themselves to be a wooden nickel in terms of strategic partner. All russia had to do was pull out on 8/10 and it would be easy to forgive–in fact, that is all they still have to do. Are they? Have they?
The fact that they are not–would you trade your family for the greater good of another nation? Then how can you in good consciousness suggest that another do the same. I am no Georgia apologist, kicking the mob boss in the shins is not a good idea. And so, I suppose, the lack of vital ‘interest’ is why no US troops are there -now-. But to suggest walking away from it? what?
I cannot believe people did not see this coming. Anybody with any clue of Georgia/Russia had to know that at any given day a conflict was going to spark. I think what is surprising is how quickly the soviet era hardliner has returned. Its a bit like Mars Attack. “Stop! We are your friends!’ *ZAAAP* ‘Welcome, friends of earth!’ *ZAPP*
