The Russia-Georgia Conflict

By now, most of us know that Russia has decided to bully its way into the neighboring, sovereign state (country, not the U.S. state) of Georgia in recent weeks. Moscow's decision is disgusting, troubling, and the way they have executed it has been barbaric. Even going into Tuesday, August 19th, Russia claims to be withdrawing forces, but evidence proves that their forces are still within Georgia boundaries. Actually, some reports have said that Russia continues to push into Georgia. Also, the Georgia city of Gori is still reportedly occupied by Moscow's forces.

Phil Valentine, a Nashville-based syndicated radio talk-show host, has suggested that this was actually a possible trial run. He has made the case on his show that Russia has decided to enter Georgia to put out feelers and see how the rest of the world would react. He has stated that Russia may be looking back to imperialism, maybe not to bring communism back, but to return to its territorial "glory". He also made the case that China is likely watching to see if it has an open door to take Taiwan.

I believe that the point Valentine has brought up is likely correct. I think Russia is once again looking to an imperialist foreign policy, and has set off a chain of events that could very well raise tensions in the Balkans and the Caucasus region, if they haven't already. I believe Moscow is looking to grow its economy by restoring its former territory, and looking to once again become a superpower. Oil is also an issue involved. Russia's economy is influenced heavily by oil, and many of the surrounding former Soviet states have oil or pipelines running through them. Georgia is one such country with a pipeline, the major one in the region that does not flow through either Russia or Iran. If Russia is looking to the imperial route again, the former Soviet states in Asia and Eastern Europe better keep close tabs on the situation. Ukraine had better especially keep a close watch. The Heritage Foundation held a discussion on the events which included our Georgia's ambassador to the U.S., and a professor from U.S. Army College. The professor indicated that, if Ukraine is allowed into NATO and the European Union, that Russia will move to get them dismembered immediately. Russia is looking to influence Ukraine to move from its largely pro-West and pro-America position now to an anti-West position. Ukraine has become a loud voice opposing Russia, and one of the most vocal supporters of continued independence for the old Soviet states. Ukraine is also one of the stronger of the old Soviet states. Russia will work hard to pressure Ukraine, and if they are looking to go imperialist, will set their sights squarely on the Ukys. I take this pretty personally because my grandfather emigrated to America after World War II. I am partially of Ukrainian heritage. Therefore, I watch Moscow with unease.

Even if Moscow withdrawals their forces from Georgia, I don't think we have heard the last of Russia's imperialist intentions.