Russian Defense Minister Says Moscow Concerned over Pankisi

Russian Defense Minister told reporters on January 19 that Georgia?s Pankisi gorge represents ?a source of concern? for Russia, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

The Russian Embassy in Georgia issued a statement on January 17 noting that a ?terrorism threat coming from Georgia? due to the presence of Chechen militants there, ?is still maintained and represents a serous challenge for the security of Russia, as well as for Georgia.?

On January 13 Russian Defense Minister said that Russia is ready to hit pre-emptively on terrorist bases outside the Russian territory.