Georgia: G7 Condems Russia, U.S. Avoids Confrontation

The BBC reports that Russia’s invasion of Georgia and recognition of two of the country’s breakway regions continued to draw criticism from the international community. The United States, United Kingdom and France have already been vocal in their condemnation of the move and are now joined by others.

Seven of the world’s leading industrialised nations have jointly condemned Russia’s decision to recognise Georgia’s breakaway regions.

Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US and UK said Moscow’s recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia violated Georgia’s integrity and sovereignty.

Earlier, the UK’s foreign secretary said Western countries should re-examine their relations with Russia.

David Miliband also warned Russia not to start a new Cold War.

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In a statement, the Group of Seven said they condemned “the action of our fellow G8 member” and reasserted their support for the Georgian government.

“Russia’s recognition of the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia violates the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia and is contrary to UN Security Council Resolutions supported by Russia,” the statement said.

The group also said it deplored Russia’s “excessive use of military force in Georgia and its continued occupation of parts of Georgia”.

In related news, Moscow has upped the ante in its dispute with Washington by accusing the United States of secretly re-arming Georgia under the guise of delivering humanitarian aid. The allegations come after a U.S. Coast Guard cutter docked at Batumi, avoiding confrontation with Russian soldiers occupying Poti.