On August 7, the country of Georgia launched an attack on the region of South Ossetia, which lies within Georgian borders. Georgia is a country in the Caucasus region south of Russia. South Ossetia is officially part of Georgia, but has been trying to gain independence since the early 1990s. After a series of clashes over the summer, Georgia struck South Ossetia with a ground force and an aerial bombardment. Georgia gained control of the South Ossetian capital of Tskhinvali for part of August 8.
Russia is an ally of South Ossetia, and supports its bid for independence. Russia responded to the Georgian attack by sending thousands of troops into South Ossetia and bombing military bases in Georgia. The fighting continued for the next week, despite talks of a ceasefire. On August 15 and 16, Georgia and then Russia signed a peace deal that was written with the help of the European Union and U.S. Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice.
Despite promising to pull out of Georgia, however, Russia retained its military presence there. By August 21, Russia had agreed to pull out most of its troops, leaving a peacekeeping force of about 500 troops at strategic checkpoints.
Leaders of South Ossetia and a second breakaway region of Georgia—Abkhazia—have urged Russia to recognized their independence. Russia is in a difficult position, however, because the U.S. and most of Western Europe support Georgia and believe that Russia has been overly aggressive in supporting South Ossetia and Abkhazia.
Image credit: © Chris Hondros/Getty Images
Related Links
- Map of Georgia
Map of Georgia, includes the South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions.
(Source: University of Texas, 2008) - Map of Caucasus Region
Map for context, of the Caucasus Region south of Russia.
(Source: University of Texas, 2003) - Georgia-Russia Conflict
Comprehensive site from the BBC on the conflict in Georgia. Includes a good map, video coverage of the conflict, articles on the events, and a timeline of events.
(Source: BBC, August 21, 2008) - Russia Battles Georgia Over Breakaway Region of South Ossetia
Article from the Guardian covering the start of the current crisis in Georgia.
(Source: The Guardian, August 8, 2008) - Red Cross To Focus on Missing and Detainees in South Ossetia
Article covering the efforts of the Red Cross to protect civilians who have been caught up in the crisis.
(Source: Reuters, August 21, 2008)
Critical Thinking Questions
- Causes and Effects
Name three effects of Georgia’s attack on South Ossetia. - Summarize
What is Russia’s position on South Ossetia’s and Abkhazia’s bid for independence? - Form and Support Opinions
The United States sent humanitarian aid to Georgia, but no military support. Do you think the U.S. made the right choice? Support your answer.