The Russians have the diplomatic edge here simply because no one who would be negotiating for our side wants a war with them. That happens. This never meant, however – nor will it mean – that we will abandon the Georgians. That particular relationship is viewed in the long term, subject as always to political whims and winds but protected and maintained by those who are actually on the ground there. And those on the ground ain’t leavin’.

The Russians, too, recognize that.