‘Reconsider Irresponsible Decision’ – Bush Tells Russia

The United States condemns the decision by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia’s independence, U.S. President George W. Bush said in a statement on August 26.

“The territorial integrity and borders of Georgia must be respected, just as those of Russia or any other country. Russia’s action only exacerbates tensions and complicates diplomatic negotiations,” he said. “We expect Russia to live up to its international commitments, reconsider this irresponsible decision, and follow the approach set out in the six-point agreement.”

He also said in the statement that the move was also “inconsistent” with the six-point ceasefire agreement. “The six-point agreement offered a peaceful way forward to resolve the conflict,” Bush said.

“In accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions that remain in force, Abkhazia and South Ossetia are within the internationally recognized borders of Georgia, and they must remain so.”

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