Russian ground forces are now moving on Gori, a Georgian city outside of South Osseti. This marks a major escalation in this conflict.
Russia’s behaviour in the past few days—most notably, the bombing of Georgian energy pipelines far away from either South Ossetia or Abkhazia and its lack of interest in a proposed ceasefire—have demonstrated that Russia’s actions are not really about South Ossetia but about an attempt to force countries in its ‘near abroad’ to accept Russian hegemony. It would be an error both strategically and morally to accept that Russia is entitled to exercise this kind of suzerainty over its neighbours.
The disputes over South Ossetia and Abkhazia needs to be settled by internationally monitored referendums. These would allow the people in these regions to make their own choice about whether they want re-integration into Georgia, greater autonomy or to leave the country altogether. However, the West must be clear that it believes that the principle of self-determination also applies to Georgia. If Georgia wishes to become more Western-oriented then the West should stand with it.
If Georgia is prepared to accept a peaceful, democratic solution with regards to South Ossetia and Abkhazia, Nato should fast-track Georgia’s membership request. With the protection inherent in Article Five, Georgia would not have to fear Russian bullying. Allowing Georgia into Nato would also send a powerful message to other countries in Russia’s near abroad that the West is prepared to protect those countries in the region that wish to become more democratic and to chart their own course in foreign policy.
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