Russia Ends Georgia Operations

After Russia convincingly gave the Georgian army an ass kicking, and after the US leaders lame condemnation of Russia's actions, the Russians have decided to stop operations. In just a few days Russia has accomplished a lot.

Number one it sent a message to any other state neighbouring Russia to be weary of courting the US and NATO. Number 2 it shows that the US can do little or next to nothing in the region to stop the Russians. BBC

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has ordered an end to military operations against Georgia, the Kremlin says.

He told officials he had taken the decision to end the campaign after restoring security for civilians and peacekeepers in South Ossetia.

However, Russia has been highly critical of Georgia's leadership, and there were no signs of imminent talks.

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According to a statement, Mr Medvedev told his defence minister and chief of staff that "the goal has been attained".

"I've decided to finish the operation to force the Georgian authorities to peace. The safety of our peacekeeping forces and civilian population has been restored," he said.

"The aggressor has been punished, having sustained considerable losses. Its armed forces have been disorganised."