Excellent cartoon by Latuff! As were the previous two.

 http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/2008/08/406294.html?c=on

Georgia launched an unprovoked attack on the disputed enclave. They obviously hoped to hold on long enough, expecting reinforcements from Nato. They badly miscalculated.

Russia counter-attacked with overwhelming force. If Russia hoped to cow neighbouring countries, then they too have seriously misjudged the situation and the whole escapade has backfired on Russia as well as Georgia.

Former Soviet Republics have backed Georgia and issued statements condemning Russia. Ukraine, Poland, Czech Republic and the Baltic States have all been highly critical of Russia. Ukraine has placed restrictions on the Russian Fleet.

Russia has put at risk its continuing membership of G8. Its currency and stock market are falling. Its relationship with Nato is also at risk.

Europe will now do all it can to diversify away from its dependency on Russian oil and gas.

The ceasefire is holding, but only just.

There is looting and torching of homes in Gori under the watchful eye of Russian tanks. As the occupying power it is for Russia to see that law and order is upheld. Russia is failing to meet its obligations under International Law.

Refugees have spoke of coming under fire from Georgian troops. Whatever their allegiance, Georgia is seen as the instigator of the dispute, Russia the liberator.

This morning, Russian tanks started to withdraw. Where they are remaining in place it is to stop looting until Georgian security have moved in. They have invited in Georgian police to enforce security and journalists to monitor the situation.

In 2003, people took to the streets in Georgia and ushered in a new regime. People power has turned sour.

Wednesday night, US military planes were flying into Georgia.

The only interest the West and especially US has in Georgia is as an access route to the oil rich region of the Caspian Basin. Afghanistan is of interest for exactly the same reason.

Neighbouring countries of Armenia and Azerbaijan are armed to the teeth and that could be the next flash point.

It was a shock to the world to see Russian tanks on European soil, the first time since Prague in August 1968. If nothing else, it has focused world attention on this troubled region.