U.S. Warns Russia over Georgia Moves

The White House has warned Russia that its military intervention in Georgia could have a “significant long-term impact” on relations between Washington and Moscow.

“We deplore the dangerous and disproportionate actions by Russian forces and we would be particularly troubled if these attacks are continuing now as the Georgians are pulling back,” James Jeffrey, U.S. President George W. Bush’s deputy national security adviser, said.

Georgian forces were withdrawn from Tskhinvali this morning – a move described by Georgian officials in public statements as “a tactical regrouping” of their forces.

The U.S. official said the Russian response to the withdrawal of Georgian forces would be key.