Bush takes tougher stance on Georgia conflict
Facing criticism from conservatives, he orders Rice to Georgia and accuses Russia of seizing territory. Along with humanitarian aid comes Pentagon promise to help rebuild Georgia's army.
WASHINGTON — President Bush escalated the American response Wednesday to Russian military action in Georgia, ordering a humanitarian aid effort and dispatching Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to the stricken region as Pentagon officials announced plans to rebuild the Georgian military.
Speaking in the Rose Garden, Bush accused Russia of seizing territory in Georgia and continuing its military campaign despite agreeing to a cease-fire.
The new words and actions from the White House came after sharp criticism from conservatives, including some in Georgia and the Bush administration, that his initial response was ineffectual.
"The United States of America stands with the democratically elected government of Georgia," Bush said. "We insist that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia be respected."
Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili on Tuesday said he would accept Russian terms for a cease-fire to end the fighting. The agreement, backed by France and the European Union, included a call for Georgia to return its troops to the positions held before hostilities broke out last week when Georgia defied Russia by launching an attack in South Ossetia.
On Wednesday, Russian tanks surrounded Gori, home of Georgia's biggest military base, cut off roads leading out of town and began to rumble south toward the Georgian capital of Tbilisi before turning back. Witnesses reported widespread looting and lawlessness both in Gori and the smattering of villages that lead up to South Ossetia.
The Pentagon emphasized that its initial concern would be providing relief supplies, but announced Wednesday that it would also begin efforts to rebuild the Georgian military.
"Our focus right now is on delivering humanitarian aid and taking care of the immediate needs of those who are caught in this conflict," said Pentagon spokesman Geoff Morrell. "When the dust settles, I am sure that we will help this sovereign nation and ally rebuild its military."
The Bush administration's position could make for a more confrontational relationship with Russia. Washington has threatened to keep Russia out of various international groups, such as the World Trade Organization, as a result of its military action in Georgia.
Deterioration of relations between Washington and Moscow could complicate several Bush administration initiatives, such as its push to build a missile defense system in Europe and its efforts to pressure Iran to give up its nuclear program.
- Getting one's bearings in the Georgia-Russia conflict Aug 14, 2008
- Dick Cheney, in visit to Georgia, assails Russia Sep 05, 2008
- Russia sees Georgia outcome as proof of its dominance Aug 25, 2008
