Russian troops remain deployed throughout western and central Georgia

Russian troops remain deployed throughout western and central Georgia on 15 August 2008. Despite a tenuous cease-fire agreement, reports indicate that Russian troops have been actively searching for Georgian military equipment and supplies. A Russian military commander stated that his forces would confiscate or destroy any weaponry they find to restore law and order in Georgia. Reports also indicate that a column of Russian tanks has advanced toward the city of Kutaisi in western Georgia. Witnesses in Kutaisi stated the Russian tanks and armored vehicles have stopped 35 mi/56 km outside of the city. Kutaisi is Georgia’s second largest city; a Russian military move into Kutaisi could signal an escalation in the conflict. The Georgian capital of Tbilisi no longer appears to be at risk of being overrun by the Russian military. Military clashes have not been threatening the capital; however Georgian troops are reportedly maintaining a defensive perimeter approximately 6 mi/10 km outside of the city. International organizations have been steadily sending humanitarian aid into Tbilisi to help supply thousands of people displaced by the conflict. Russian government representatives have stated that Georgia will not be allowed to retake the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. U.S. President George W. Bush has stated that the United States recognizes Georgia’s sovereignty over the two disputed regions. U.S. government officials have repeatedly urged Moscow to withdraw and allow Georgia to retake the provinces. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is set to arrive in Tbilisi on 15 August to help finalize a comprehensive cease-fire agreement that could set the stage for a Russian retreat from Georgia. Further violence could still erupt at any moment, and travelers should remain vigilant given the fragile security situation.