Georgia on my mind!

Over the weekend conflict broke out between Russia and Georgia over the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Both of these regions have declared Independence at one point or another and since the 1990's have been acting as somewhat independent entities (Neither region, has been diplomatically recognised by any member of the UN). While Georgia has offered them a limited autonomous status, it was rejected in 2006.

Fighting broke out on August 1st 2008 between Georgian troops and para-military separatists in South Ossetia. A few days later Russia, warned Georgia that they will intervene if a full conflict erupts. Both of these regions are heavily populated by Russian speaking peoples. Support for secession from Georgia, by the Kremlin, has increased dramatically over the years, (Russia offers the inhabitants of these regions Russian passports and citizenship).

Statements of "Ethnic cleansing" have been made by both sides (Georgian genocide of Russian speaking Ossetians / Russian targeting of Georgia's civilian population / etc... ) . It all gets a bit confusing!

This is a perfect example of why America should not get involve in entangled alliances and "peacekeeping" missions!

NATO is currently considering plans to accept Georgia membership in 2009. This would mean that America, as a founding member of NATO, would have no choice but to come to the military aid of Georgia. What would have happened if Georgia became a member of NATO last year? Hell... even a month ago? I'll tell you what would have happened... Full U.S. military confrontation with Russia!

This in my opinion, is one more reason to leave NATO. Trying to help resolve the issues through neutral diplomatically is one thing. But, would we really be willing to risk going to war with Russia over South Ossetia?