I am continually amazed at just how bumbling the current Bush administration has been, and still is. Every day is another (unpleasant) relavation. The only question now is just how far the incompetitent Saakashvili (western pupet) can lead the damn fools. It is good to see the truth in print.

Don Livingood, Litchfield, United States

poor saakashvili ! politics is no cowboy adventure. a tiny country taking on a giant nuclear- power neighbour having huge oil and other reserves. just think cuba taking on a disputed territory in usa. georgians must be feeling very humiliated and angry ,in addition to their their economic hardship

surajit som, new delhi, india

will, grimsby, your question is rather to the western mass media then to Russia. Why won't they go to Ossetia and show the true picture? Simply because the US has invested too much money into mad Saaki project, and now how can Bush say his tax payers that he's drained their money down the plughole.

Boris, Moscow, Russia

Great article, most of author words are breathing ukraine's vision on this conflict, despite official position of Kiev.
Thanks a lot mister Binyon

Vladimir, Odessa, Ukraine

If the US believes that a fellow European country, Russia, is its enemy and a long-time terror-backer, Saudi Arabia, is its close ally, then you are a big time loser. If idiotic regimes like Poland, the Baltic republics and Georgia are your friends, you are in deep trouble, Sam

Rakesh Krishnan, Auckland, New Zealand

Giovanni, "moral authority" has nothing to do with it.
"A kind heart is of no value in chess", Putin played his series of moves well ,his indecisive opponents barely made a move and are still scratching their heads.
They'd better quickly read Machiavelli and Sun Tzu, IF Putin gives them the time.

Dr Andris Lielmanis, Brampton, Canada

It's checkmate because Putin has shown how the West, especially the USA, has lost its moral authority, since they can't complain about violation of national sovereignity and "humanitarian war", after they have attacked three sovereign nations in just 4 years (Serbia, Afghanistan, Iraq).

Giovanni@, Vercelli, Italy

Thank you Mr Binyon! American people deserve to hear the truth.

Vera Corbett, clementon, USA

theres all this talk by russians and europeans about the genocide commited by georgia, but what evidence is there of this genocide other then putin and his generals telling us so? its astonishing people believe state controlled russian media so unequivocally. wait for un monitors u may be surprised

will, grimsby, uk

Definitely Russia is changed and the image of a white bear to become old-fashioned. I think your comparison of Putin with a chessplayer is right. However it has not been checkmate yet; without doubt the game it not over. Certainly Bush has a shortage of time because the elections to occur soon but he has European politics support.

Alexey, Moscow,

actually to stay with the chess analogy, i would say this wasnt a russian check mate, it would be more of a russian fools mate. they have shown their hand, they have shown their tactics and if the uk us eu have any form of diplomatic and military skill it should be simple to outmanouvere them.

will, grimsby, uk

It seems to me that Russia had a better excuse to invade South Ossetia than we are the US had to invade Iraq. At least the citizens they say they are defending do exist, unlike the WMDs.

neil upton, argentat, france

Unbiased, objective and constructive rhetoric, that came at the time when I am absolutely sick and tired of the despicable western media coverage of the crisis. Michael Binyon, Beleive me.. You just made my day.

Safwan, London, UK

For Douglas, Pittsburgh, USA

Historically USA has been both xenophobic and imperialistic for a long long time. Now she clearly wishes to return to 19th century expansionist politics. Unfortunately, USA only feels secure when she decides to spread insecurity amongst the international community.

Andrew , Marseille, France

To Lela, Joburg, South Africa

Russia has gained 1/ the precedent to defend Russians in the Near Abroad: 25 mn in Ukraine, 9 mn in Kazakhstan, 2 mn in the Baltics....(who are fascists as they consider SS veterans heroes and are dragging EU into its vendettas) and 2/ breaking US oil expansion plans.

Andrew , Marseille, France

A topic that receives no comment is Saakashvili posing with the EU flag when addressing the media. Georgia is not in the EU. It's not his flag. So why EU not denounce the use of their flag by a state that has declared a 15 day war on Russia? Perhaps journalists should ask Saakashvili this question

Andrew , Marseille, France

Russia did not have a choice. Georgia has attacked Ossetia and killed people. Russia protected Ossetia and has got in a trap. It was the trap of Georgia and Georgia knew, that Russia cannot easy look at murders of people. This trap has been prepared by the USA and Georgia to incite other countries against Russia.

Alisa, Moscow, Russia

Russia did not have a choice. Georgia has attacked Ossetia and killed people. Russia protected Ossetia and has got in a trap. It was the trap of Georgia and Georgia knew, that Russia cannot easy look at murders of people. This trap has been prepared by the USA and Georgia to incite other countries against Russia.

Alisa, Moscow, Rusia

Very objective article.

It sounds strange but the majority of western news agencies intentially provide misleading information and poor propaganda.

For the first time I would admit that Russia did the right thing!

Ed, Los Angeles, California

Douglas, Pittsburgh, USA is a PhD in Russian history? I doubt it. You may blame Communism on anything, except one thing: Communist propaganda has NEVER taught that war is the right way to gain political aims. Russians reject war on a genetic level. And they genetically hate to be treated unfairly.

Boris, Moscow, Russia

Negative comments about Russia, what is it? Fear? Or you just surprised to see Russia strong when every media in US and EU was assuring you that it's over for this country. You saw weak Russia during 90s but now the situation has changed. Try to provoke us somewhere else - you will get same response

Alex Meshkov, Beijing, China

historically Russia has been both xenophobic and imperialistic for a long long time. now she clearly wishes to return to 19th century expansiontist politics. unfortunately, Russia only feels secure when she decides to spread insecurity amongst the international community.

Douglas, Pittsburgh, USA

I agree, the Russians have waited patiently before flexing their muscles to the West.
It shows that the US and its allies has a bold and competent challenger over control of the oil and gas reserves/pipeline routes of Eurasia.
Conflicts like this will be increasingly common as oil supplies dwindle.

JB, Seef, Bahrain

Russia is not what it was 20 years ago. It's not week and confused, but it's not a Soviet Union either ! The Russians have no wish to return to soviet times at all and wey do our best to build another coutry with other rulls, values. It's so funny to read how western politics draw us as an anamy

Elizabeth, Tyumen, Russia

If the US continue the 1970-80's politics to dictate their ZANDARMO charecter,and that will buried by the new Russia in the head of MR.PUTIN.

Talk to Russia in a proper manner and that is good for all of "US"

Dr.Balan, Chennai, India

To Charly, London, Canada

What do you call "reforms" in Russia is what was happening in Russia during Yeltzin?? Funny! Wish you never have such leader in your countries! ;)
Leaders are good if they are good for their own people. And last but not least, thanks God, the World is no longer mono-polar

Aramais, Kampala, Uganda

Very nice article! Really objective opinion! Deep condolenses to Ossethians. Saakaashvily, bon apetit! Very delicious tie :)

Maximus, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Every man, died or killed in a democratic war started by democratic president, is your personal murder, your victim, because you elected your democratic president.
That's the democratic value.
Cheers.

Mykola, Kiev, Ukraine

Russia has begun its withdrawal TOMORROW. Don't belive such media like times, cnn, bbc and reuters. They are provoking west people against russia.

What do you thing is the aim of Russia in Georgia? What Russia has reached with striking back to georgian soldirs, who killed russian people in Ossetia?

Dmitry, Moscow,

Russia's invasion into Georgia was a huge blunder and it throws her back into the Cold War. Russia gains nothing except more tanks on her borders. Twenty years of reform down the drain. Real smart Russia.

And Russia will follow Bush's orders and leave Georgia in a few days

Charly, London, Canada

Finally someone said the truth!
Saakashvili is a butcher paid by US. US will replace USAshvili with another butcher. But 2000 people are dead and blood is on US gov. hands too!
W. Bush and Co. are still lying to American people - that is not acceptable! Americans should kick off W.B from W. House.

Bud, Philadelphia, USA

With the disbanding of the Warsaw Pact, there was no "purpose" for NATO anymore, unless bombing weaker nations into stone ages and stealing their natural resources in the name of defending democracy can be called a "purpose".

Georgia threatened Moscow with NATO bases, hence all this conflict.

Protik Maitra, Charlotte, NC

All wars are brutal, whether it is ground fighting, or bombing from the air.

margie , victoria, australia

Russia is on top in its own mind if they pick on the states they will get a lot more than they ever bargained for i think ,georgia is nothing and wasnt even armed well so its a non starter as far as victory goes and the bottom line is they stopped , its a long way from checkmate.

melanie, london, uk

Well Paid article!!! Very well!
Complimenti to payer

hugh, gori, georgia

I could not make sense out of this. Please somebody explain to me - what is the gain of Russia from this conflict? what I see is humiliation of Russia all over the world, what else is "gained"?

Lela, Johannesburg, South Afrrica

A good, thoughtful article. However it is unlikely that President Saakashvili attacked Georgia against US advice! More likely the US gave Georgia the green light in order to discredit Russia and turn world opinion against them. Fortunately, Russia came out on tops geopolitically.

Derek Papps, Oamaru, New Zealand

It's still very surprising, how much cold war style propaganda goes on in the World. So many talks about tanks rolling over into a supposedly free Georgia and nobody cares about initial bombardments and killed civilians by Gergian military, heavily supported by US Army.

Wolfgang, Munich, Germany

defeat the aggressor whoever it may be.
Georgian people might have had bad Karma - (sharon stone style).
If Russians marry Americans, British marry Russians, Indians marry Pakistani and Chinese etc.. international unity can achieve:).

Hari Sujathan, Cochin, India

Authority, money and military power the world, predetermine peace, conscience and fairness. But South Ossetia and Abkhazia will be independent sooner or later and it is necessary to recognize it a unique output for achievement of the world in this region.

Khachatur, Novorossiysk, Russia

"the so called "Peace Keeping" troops that were in So. Ossetia had been firing on the Georgian people" - that's not true.

30 minutes before the Georgian attack on Tskhinvali, the Georgian peacekeeping forces withdrew from So. Ossetia in order to join their regular forces to attack Tskhinvali.

Michael Konon, Moscow, Russia

It is true that many mistakes have been made by the US and Nato in regard to Russia. It is not less true that if NATO does not give a firm, solid and strong answer to Russia now, tomorrow the problem will be worse. The problem tomorrow is Ucrania, and this tomorrow is too close.

Pedro, Madrid, Spain

to Andrew from London!
As your remeber we gave independense to Chechnya after the frist war. but the invade to dagestan at 1999 and we stop that with 3000 dead soldiers.
There is now slavery, fundamental islam, weapon and drug dealing in S. Ossetia like in Chechnya and Kosovo

Kamil, Chelaybinsk, Russia

Very surprising analysis. The author is supposed to be a Russian Expert. But his conclusions are appalling. He wants the former Soviet republics to “remember your geography” which means stop pursuing democratic changes just not to anger Russia. And Georgia must change its leader – exactly what Putin wants. NATO have to leave Caucasus alone to please Russia.
It is a great shame that Times’s expert offers this kind of advices to the World.

George, London, UK

I've found the translation of the article in Russian internet and didn't believe that the translation was 100% correct...
Sounds very much as all this propaganda of the Russian mass media - no facts, but just singing how good is the Russian politics.

Yulia, Moscow,

Ivan from St Petersburg said: "Somewhat surprised to hear someone from the West speak such things as the author does. Even more surprised to see something of the sort be PUBLISHED. Give more.
That's the big difference: In the west reporters can speak the truth, in Russia they get murdered.

Roger, Taipei, Taiwan

The writer forgot to tell everyone that the so called "Peace Keeping" troops that were in So. Ossetia had been firing on the Georgian people and troops for some time. Russia had massive troops just waiting to move if the Georgian troops took the bait and came to stop the Russians from shooting.

Linda , Rogersville, AL, USA

The US and the West have lost all their marbles in their biased and unfair blame on Russia. The real culprit is MS, that little stooge of the US who thought he has been empowered by the US' promise of NATO membership & support. It's not unexpected for Russia to rspond the way they did, & rightly so!

tuyiang, KL, Malaysia

Is it possible to count how many more people in Ossetia had died on both sides while US and UE were getting over the shock from Russian Army's redeaness to answer?

Alex Vasilevich, Los Angeles, US

Now as the public opinion and news coverage in the west more and more get back to reality, Bush and McCain have to always stay on the other side of the track, or their faces will be looking even more stupid than they do now. Mr.Obama still has chances to join the community of sane and honest people.

Boris, Moscow, Russia

Having been in the region in 1994 it becomes easy to believe the conspiracy theories. Big power plays and a big game of chess. Is it any surprise that Russia does not welcome NATO in her back yard? Is it any surprise that NATO wants to be there? No one is backing down and again the innocent pay.

Jim Loring, Clayton,

Somewhat surprised to hear someone from the West speak such things as the author does. Even more surprised to see something of the sort be PUBLISHED. Give more.

Ivan, St. Petersburg, Russia

Thank you for your article, it was a delight to read it.

Egor, Moscow, Russia

Excellent article although it is pro Russian. Probably it is beginning of the end US dominance in world arena. Good for all hopefully.

Jasur, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Well written. The contrast in style between brash U.S. and Russia's "been here, know the score, our history will prevail".
How many times can a person or a nation take a condescending, in your face disregard towards others.
A brutal response is not a bad reply. Back off, Be warned!

Malcolm Beach, London, Canada

i think russia feels very isolated of late and rightly so, its about time the usa stopped trying to police the world and embraced other countrys ideals without trying to destroy them.

pip draper, worcester, uk

Thank you for the truth.
Apparently Times have the guts to publish it. I am impressed.

Alex, Calgary, Canada

After Iraq, Afghanistan etc., the USA shopuld shut up and never, ever open their mouth over any moral issues. They simply don't have the right to do so.
It's hullarious to read Bush speaking about "free nations of the world" and "XXI century methods". He is the last person to comment on such things

Alexander, Moscow, Russia

The problem with Russia is the simple fact that Putin is trying to rebuild the former Soviet Union with himself at the reigns. Medvedev is simply a puppet that Putin controls. If Putin really cares about South Ossetia they will allow North Ossetia unite into an independant Ossetia nation.

Uomo Del Ghiaccio, Minneapolis, USA

great job, mr. Binyon! thank you for the article.

alexander, saint-petersburg , russia

To: Larry, Stamford, CT, USA - "I'd love to see the USA become isolationist and see how many countries will beg for our technology"

Please do, we are already sick of your country and your government trying to be "a plug in every barrel" (national Russian saying). Be isolationist !!!

Vitaly, Moscow, Russian Empire (:-)

Something new compared to "this ugly bear got out of hand!".
This article underscores tiny amount of media freedom in the West, well comparable to Putin's Russia.
Real pawns though are PEOPLE in South Ossetia, Russia, US, EU, Iran, Iraq... in the whole world.
Stop being a pawn!

Michael, Los Angeles, USA

i am really pleased to read the truth.

sasha, moscow, russia

Excellent article. Thanks very much!

Michael, Brisbane, Australia

Not an issue of being a "liberal pawn", but of showing that what Putin did makes geopolitical sense, no matter what pious outrage George Bush may muster, and that we may share. Analysis of a chessboard and morals are different dimensions, are they not?

Philippe Buc, Paris, France

Great article, finally we can read a piece that doesn't sound like a sour loser's weeping. The fact is: if Americans didn't push for Kosovo's independence, we wouldn't have this situation in Georgia. Now both Russians and especially Serbs can say: told you so...

miconi, Belgrade, Serbia

Brilliant pro Russian stance. I like the tit for tat approach, you obviously are a liberal pawn to be used with on the great chessboard as Putin wills.

charles jackson, kenosha wi, usa

we needs dialogue+ trust between russia +west to encourage democracy + peace.the agreement between poland and usa for defence shield was ill timed as justifies suspicion that programme aimed at russia. russias reaction to georgia seems disproptionate but we shd act impartialy for the sake of peace.

bill, london, uk

It seems bizarre to cast Putin as a master chess-player of international affairs. Why declare the successes of Western influence in the Ukraine, Poland etc. as the loss of pawns, while an invasion of Georgia checkmate? It is an assertion of Russian military force, but it may well be foolish.

Kevin McGerty, London, U.K.

pretty incompetent. the author outsmarted even Kremlin propagandists. especially impressed by "Russia has not made one wrong move". compare this to Pavlovksy's critical attitude to the war. http://russ.ru/interv_yu/nam_nado_videt_chertu_gde_my_ostanovimsya
shame.

alex, london, uk

It seems the conflict with Georgia is a tactical victory, and a strategic error for Russia.

Charles, Frodsham, UK

What is worrying is the sheer complacency and arrogance of the US and many of its allies. Even with first hand knowledge and intimate details, the blundering antics and lack of 'savvy' from the west and its allies beggars belief. You have to admire the Russians in many respects

Gordon Charlesworth, Colchester, England

Checked but far from checkmate. Russia has declared its brutal hand and now the whole world knows it is not to be trusted in any way, shape or form. World chess is a long game. Blustering, bullying and threatening behaviour is for the short game only. Russia has 1.5 billion Chinese in its back.yard

albert hall, hove, england

A very well weighed opinion and good analysis - quite a contrary to almost everything I have read about this conflict before. US have definitely lost in Georgia - at least, this round. Bush has to remember he is not the only player on the field.
Kudos and respect to the author!

Andrew, Karlsruhe, Germany

Thank you for such a great article!
It was such a pleasure to read it.

Albina Smirnova, Trondheim, Norway

The attack on Georgia is not a victory but the last flailings of a moribund culture. No innovation or new technology and a society and politics dominated by rich, ignorant thugs. This "victory" won on the back of 20th century politics with 20th century weapons just shows how backward they are.

Paul, Wolverhampton, UK

Intelligent approach. A contrast to primitive ones. For people who consider themselves thinking:
- topranked gvt. officials are expected to respect historic consistency, human values and values of other nations;
- the world is changing more dynamically than it can be imagined.

Many thanks.

Igor, St.Petersburg, Russian Federation

I'm delighted with this article! Everything is quite right! Thank you very much!

Artjom, Krasnojarsk, Russia

Thank you for your article! Exсellent!
Both sides are compared. The Times is the only free media in UK and US!
It's not so bad while The Times exists.

There is no free media in the US!
Try to search any tube site for the video from the Fox news about Ossetian girl, who tried to tell the truth.

Petro, Irkutsk,

I am surprised by the objectivity of the author, congratulations!

Yana, Granada, Spain

Excellent Article...good to see some courage.

max, Houston, TX, 77096

As so many have said, refreshing to finally see an article that isn't demonising Russia and that approaches the question at hand with a cool and leveled head, as opposed to most where maximalism and idealism replaces common sense.

Katja, Stockholm, Sweden

Sounds like a very pleasant eulogy to truly wise conduct by fellow Russian statesmen, someone from the Central Bank of Russia must have tipped of the US counterparts Russia might think about cashing out its Stabilization Fund held in American bonds to have this appeared. I am tickled pink. Thnx

Pavel, Moscow, Russia

As an American, I can hardly complain when the Russians play just like us. I remember Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and all the other humiliations like Palestine that have been visited upon my fellow Muslims by my American Bible thumping countrymen. So ! Other can play the game too!

Al Raisuli, St. Louis, USA

The US should use this as an opportunity to fundamentally change our foreign policy. Georgia is a European affair and as such resolution should be led and conducted primarily by the EU. The US relationship with Russia should not be affected by Russia's military response to Georgia.

Neil, Oakland, USA

That's nice!!!!!

Borat, kazikstan,

As an American, I am surprised that the Russians would use cluster bombs. They are surely not vying for mastery in that mysterious art with the Israelis and us? This is quite presumptuous. Besides, we simply do not allow others to follow our example.

Al Raisuli, St. Louis, USA

Hitler also attacked Poland "to claim historical German land". Saakashvili's Georgia will surely end where Hitler's Germany ended. For some reason, those who have fallen victim to Georgian propaganda a well paid Belgian PR firm, forget what Georgia did in Abkhazia, killing 3,000 Abkhaz in 1993

Andrei, Chicago, USA

I'm amazed! Some days ago we listen only "Russia tanks invaded Georgia". I seem it's the first real independent attempt to analyse the last events around South Ossetia and result of the Russian victory over "torch of freedom" Mikheil Saakashvili.

Leonid, Moscow, Russia

Hitler's victories were also "brutal - and brilliant". Putin's Russia will surely end where Hitler's Germany ended.
For some reason, those who have fallen victim to Russian propaganda and lament for the 1,600 people allegedly killed in South Ossetia, forget what the Russian did in Abkhazia.

Noah, Tbilisi, Georgia

the emptiest article in the whole US press ( about this war )

Dmitriy , NY, US

I am an architect
I would not like to build bunkers and live there
So we PEOPLE of the civilized World, should be as clever for don`t do that!
We should not to review the lessons of the 2nd World War!

Tim, Kazan, Russia

A refreshingly sober look onto the events. Excellent article!

Vladimir, Moscow,

THANK YOU!!! I've always appreciated The Times for an independent, plain and weiged overview events. Brains of Euripeans and Americans are being washed through, and only in your newspaper I saw true article. Here, in Russia, a great internet war begins.... We'll live - and see

Andrew, Saransk, Russia

As per Human Rights Watch reports, there was no evidence that Georgians killed 2000 civilians. The author became a victim of Russian PR and propaganda. they are very aggressive, they want to regain the power of USSR, and Europe soon will see its tanks near their own doors, if not to stop them.

Canchil, St.Petersburg,

Seems very reasonable thoughts.
Thanks to the author.
I am just sorry for all ordinary people,
got cought in this political games.

Ivan, Los Angeles, US

Two points!

Dulat, Fort Collins, USA

Do you folks really think the USA is out to 'take over' Russia or any other eastern bloc country?? I am so sick of the rhetoric about how the big bad USA is damaging every country we are involved with. I'd love to see the USA become isolationist and see how many countries will beg for our technology

Larry, Stamford, CT, USA

Excellent article! Check and mate.

Cheryle, Flagstaff, U.S.A.

To Karolis, Lithuania. Do you really believe that nothing can change? Do you really beleive that modern Russia is the same as the Soviet one? Then if you do it can be also said that Baltic countries still support fascist regime. BTW, there had been a lot of Russians sent to Siberia as well.

Kirill, Yaroslavl, Russia

@ John (Ireland)
The USA would love to be able to bring all its troops out of Europe. However, every 25 years or so they have to be sent back under wartime conditions as Europe seems to have problems keeping the peace.

Andre, Portland, USA

Thank you, i've almost given up hope to see an end to the propaganda the West has to listen to. There's nothing virtuous in wars and politics, and the only party i'd stand up for in this is Ossetians and Abkhazians, who have everything (a democratic governemt to boot) to live and be indepent.

Stanislav, Vladivostok, Russia

truly a great read and very true.

DAVE, perth, australia

Russia - 1

Zionistas - 0

zach, Kennebunkport, Maine

Perfect but for ONE glaring problem: Rice says she told Saakashvili not to engage.
1) Sounds like spin to me.
2) If not, Why? What was being discussed for her to make such a demand?
3) Why did Israel "JUST" pull out of its training/arming prior to this?
Bottom line is; USA/Israel BACKED this attack

Liam, Halifax,, Canada

Thanks for an impartial view. I wish there were more articles like this for what we see now puts a question mark at independance of a number media companies.

Kir, Bratislava, Slovakia

I couldn't agree more with the analysis presented. Excellent article.

Alberto, Lima, Peru

Nobody else said who started this conflict. Georgia’s president reminds me to BORAT.
JOHNNY ATHENS

ion, Athens, Greece

Adrian, not a draw.
This one looks like a stalemate forced by the russians after they were dealt a inferior position earlier. Any chess analogy is rarely complete.

Mikhail, San Jose, US

Finally! An insightful article from the western press for a change.
By the way, I've seen it translated to Russian already.
One thought: since the foreign policy of the US affects so many people including me, how come I don't get to vote in the upcoming US presidential election?

Mikhail, Moscow,

American bases should be forcibly removed from Europe. America is the greatest threat to world peace. Who profited from World War 2? America is interested in protecting its interests. The Roman Empire wasn't as brutal as bush, cheney etc.

John, Dublin , Ireland

I think that the author doesn't have any idea about the game of chess. By checkmate you capture the king's opponent in a position where he can not get out "alive". Saakashvili is still there and even stronger.
The correct chess analogy would've been "Russia draws Georgia in a game of global chess".

Adrian, Philadelphia, US

The West has no right to dictate to Russia what it does: they have made ill use of Georgia to challenge Russia & have ended up with a bloody nose. The West has to understand the limitations of power. Other people do matter & are capable of hitting back!

ian cheese, london, uk

Russia is IMMORTAL!!!

Alex, Moscow,

"Look at the detachment of Kosovo from Serbia"
In Kosovo albanians were dominante and in Abkhazia an S Osetia GEORGIANS are dominant and why nobady ask our opinion I DON'T WANT TO BE PART OF RUSSIA.
The author really don't know the problem of Abkhazia and S Osetia

bavshvi, Tbilisi, Goergian

Thnx for the article, really of the truthful pieces in the huge mass of anti-russian propaganda....ask yourself a question..why 30 000 of south osetian refugees has been seeking for salvation in "invading" Russia,not in peaceful Georgia and Tbilisi..thats the question reveals the truth...

Olga, Moscow,

Sevinj, Baku, Azerbaijan

Russia is People, not some abstract notion. These were Russia's soldiers who defended civilians in S.Ossetia. Actually, why are so many Azeris, Georgians, Armenians, Turkmens, Kazakhs, Tadjiks and so on immigrating to Moscow, if Russia is so awful???

Nikolay, Moscow, Russia

History lesson: in 1222 South Osetia was occupied by Georgians. No part of Georgia then?

K. Moscow

ksenia kartseva, Moscow, Russia

I think that is not the end of this game yet. As I understood a group of 80 Russian investigators now works on the territory of Osetia. They are collecting the evidences of crime and also reports of Osetian witnesses who have become victims. Soon I believe the case will be in Hague court.

Haim, Rehovot, Israel

An excellent article. The lesson learned from all of this, is that the Washington and its lackeys in both London and Tel Aviv will never get access to the oil in the Caspian area. Checkmate for the Bear indeed! Hurrah for Russia!

Jason Bjornsson, NYC, USA

To Al in the USA.

If you knew where Dubbo was you would have let it pass. Bless Matthew......

Grant, London, UK

At last, a decent article citing the bigger picture! Thank you.

Sean, London, UK

Michael,
Curious how you describe Georgians as killing and maiming and Russian intervention as short, sharp and deadly. Russia provoked the whole conflict in order to make sure nobody except Russia provides oil to Europe.
Thinking of the Russian strategy as tactical mastery is historicaly wrong.

Jan, London, United Kingdom

Russia kicked out British diplomats & then the British Council. Russia kicked out senior managers of BP. Then Russia invaded Georgia.

No rights or wrongs. Just clever exercise of power. And Russia controls oil & gas, & has massive foreign currency reserves.

The west should be very concerned.

Alistair Nicholls, Manchester, UK

First of all chess is not a Russian game, almost everybody from Russia winning the championship was Jew, except for Karpov.
Russa won the war because she is brutal not only to enemies but to her own people as well. She treats people (osetins) like pawns and sacrifice them for abstract power.

Sevinj, Baku, Azerbaijan

Straight to the point! Thank you for your courage.

Anna Kim , Rauma, Finland

Continued Now Georgia attacks South Ossetia,in 2 days 2000 civilians dead and instead US do what it did to Serbia bomb it for using too much force actually is supportin Georgia that means it agrees with butchering of civilians.

Dragan, Sydney, Australia

One of the few insightful articles in the sea of war propoganda.

Jeremy, Arlington, VA, USA

Russian peacemakers acted in concordance with UN engagement.They had to keep the peace in the S.Osetia. Georgia attaked S.Osetia, killed 2000 S.Osetia residents!!! Russia stoped that genocide. What "Russian incursion" do most of west mass media talk about?It's mean to show the situation in this way!

Arthur, Moscow, Russia

In free elections in Palestine, Hezbollah won by a landslide. US called the elections "a sham". Saakashvili used tear gas and police to dispel tens of thousands of protesters of unfair elections, US recognizes him a beacon of democracy. US gov't looks dumb and funny trying to take tough moral stance

Nikolay, Moscow, Russia

Russians didn't even have to be smart this time.Because it's easy to tell the turth! This is why they are so relaxed.The past cold war rhetoric was obvious, boring, unproductive and funny to intelligent people. Cause these were basically lies. The current Georgian/US "party line" is no exception.:((

Sergie, Moscow, Russia

A fine article. If you want to see a foreign policy that understands Russia, read how Finland reacted to the fall of the Soviet Empire. Carefully, respectfully and with the full knowledge that the 90's were a transient period. Everyone else read Fukuyama and worse still, believed him.

Ian Robertson, Helsinki, Finland

Brilliant article, mate.

Mish, Newport, United Kingdom

If it is true that the Americans knew about Georgia`s intentions , advised against it, but it still went ahead, then the present Georgian government have a lot to answer for. They have exposed American naivety and given Russia the excuse it wanted . Russia 1 West 0 . Was it worth the loss of life?

Peter, London,

Very fair article! I just wanted to ask others still are angry at USSR:forget it all in past as It's inapropriate time by now: after Saaka's bombs were died 1600 innocent people, most of them russian citizens(slept in their beds etc).Russia was resposible to protect its citizens! BE HUMANS!

Gala, Moscow, Russia

Thank you for your article. Many people in Ukraine share Russians' grief because of 1600 innocent victims during the war. And finally we can see that the West takes into consideration the arguments of both sides.

Mykola Sydorenko, Cherkasy, Ukraine

I have read all opinions and would like to say: Great !!! There are so many judicious people in the West. And it means that we CAN live reasonably in our very vulnerable world. Thanks guys, you are giving me back my shaking belief in the mankind.

Michael, Moscow, Russia

Russia as a Socialist State couldn't win.

Russia as a Capitalist State cant win either

Anyone given any thought to this.?

Its my considered view, that the extreme right wing in the US are happy to play the Long Game.

The collapse of Russia of any regime colour, and the Dash for Siberia.

brian bunting, chorley, united kingdom

Finally something appropriate in western press regarding this war. Not like usual anti-Russina hysteria.

Vlad, Stockholm, Sweden

This article most closely corresponds to to the real facts.
Thank you very much. CNN, Washington Post, NYTimes, etc are the
instrument in hands of mendacious politics that try to begin a new world redistribution.
The USA forget what is a democracy and really alarmed about the revival of Russia

Sergei, Surgut, the Russian Federation

Michael,
1.Your congratulations must go to Eltsin because these territories of Georgia have been occupied by Russia since 1992. Putin just gave to world chance to open eyes and see that evils empire is raising again.
2."Kosovo, Iraq, Nato membership..." - Do you really think those are pawns? ;-)

Giorgi, Tbilisi, Georgia

Saakashvili will pay for his crimes.

Ivan, Berlin, Germany

I have very deep respect for your honest and professionalism. Thank You.

Aleksandr Kim, Vladivostok, Russia

I don't think this article is unbiased, but it does counter the anti-Russian reports in the Western media. The Russian reports are just as biased as the West's. I have read both sides and I can see very few hard facts on either side, since no-one really has a full understanding of the background.

Emily, London, UK

I like this artical it seems logical and clever. There is a lot or propaganda nowadays and people become tired of it. I believe that in general all people in the world value same things and could live in peace. These are the politicians who start wars playing their dirty games. Thanks Mr. Binyon.

George, Tallinn, Estonia

The Ukraine will be watching all this with trepidation.
RUSSIA'S lease on its base at Sebastopol is up for renewal soon.
Very interesting. Will uncle Sam blink first?
Lenin said " With capitalism we will weave the rope with which we will hang it."

Ronald John Bentham, Nantwich, UK

Great article - its nice that in East (USA esp.) in such a big magazine as Times, the people wrote a RIGHT article about whats happening in South Ossetia, about Georgian agression over peaceful ossetians.

All, who do not understand WHY Georgians started attack Ossetia, their truly reason-just dumb

iMiKE, Novosibirsk, Russia

Great article! The impartial analysis of a situation. All indeed actually.

Serge, Saint-Petersburg, Russia

Good and trust analytical article.
Unfortunately a lot of foreign media had given not trust information at first five days.
War hasn't winners , it has dead .
In this conflict the vast majority of population of Russia was on South Ossetia side but not against Gergian people.

Alexandr, Kursk, Russia

>Why compare South Ossetia to Kosovo? What about Chechenia next door to Gorgia; is Russia allowing them independence, which they claim for SO?

You have bad knowledge of situation. De-facto in 1996 Chechenia was granted wide autonomy. But in 1999 terrorists attacked Russian territory from Chechenia

Sergey, St Petersburg, Russia

Quite a clear and fair article, thank you very much. Hope, this conflict will be a lesson to all politicians who still think they're playing chess instead of living people.

Denis, Moscow, Russia

The bear has has shaken off its nose ring...lock the doors and hide the honeypot...!

Antoine, Sydney, Australia

Thank You for true and objectivity.
p.s. Thats why I'll add Times to bookmarks. ^_^

Siarhei, Tallinn, Estonia

100 % !
But all this was in our Izvestia, for example ( izvestia.ru).
We have heavy fist again and obtained clever brains.
We are not bottle-washer.

Valeriy, Moscow, Russia

"Great to see normal perspective on this. Well done!
Matthew, Dubbo"

Matvey , "normal" (perspective) is a popular informal Russian expression conveying approval but not quite proper English usage...

Al, USA,

awesome title - big guys playing chess, winning and loosing, but people and solders are not playing, they are just dying...

dens, NY, US

After a generation of collapse and poverty, Russians are naturally proud to see their country asserting itself.And the conflict is by no means as black and white as either side suggests.But the idea that the _10 country_ Nato expansion and missile defense were pawns sacrificed for Georgia is absurd

matt, new york, usa

Big USA & Israel's help of Georgia's small military- either this 911 style "Strike" on Ossetia was to put the anthrax assassination story on the back pages, or to keep the Russians busy while they hit Iran.............What else could be important enough to cause such an (seemingly) idiotic move??

Thomas George, Ponpei, Micronesia

Russia has seemingly learned to chose her battles well.
In all of this we refer to the players in geographic terms, west, east etc, but truthfully what are we really talking about, is maybe a few dozen elites, perhaps a few hundred all playing to the tune of a small group of elite bankers it's crazy

Graham, hamilton, canada

Tasmanian world and military perspective from Mike.
Brutal? Barrage artillery against sleeping civilians from the murdering Georgians was fair play, was it?
The Russians have been watching the US and Israeli's training the Georgians for what only could have been an assault on Ossetia.

Ron Cross, Singapore, Singapore

My guess it that the shelling of South Ossieta and brutal assault on its capitol by US and Israeli trained and advised Georgian soldiers and contracted mercenaries was encouraged and perhaps instigated by those in DC.

It's always political. Watch McCain rise in the polls.

brisa, Galena, USA

Good article, author did bothered to study the historic background of the confict and managed to put the facts straight.
I cannot believe that Georgia under 'democratically elected' inconsistent and irresponsible gambler Saakashvili was proposed to join NATO. Would Europe and USA seriously consider starting the war with Russia because of irresponsible actions of Saakashivili?

Costas, New York, USA

Brilliant article. My greatest respect, mr. Binyon. At last - an objective view of situation from the West.

Anton, Vladivostok, Russia

On July 6th, 2008, Georgian soldiers assisted US soldiers with loading uh-60 helicopters onto an Antov An-124 cargo plane Ramstein GE. On 7 July US and Georgian soldiers came together in Tbilisi for training that was conducted by the US soldiers for a force protection exercise Immediate response

Mike, huntsville, USA

Great to see normal perspective on this. Well done!

Matthew, Dubbo,

Checkmate: Hardly.

The United States has a Very Long Fuse; but at the end of that fuse is one gigantic BANG.

We suffered small Islamist terrorist attacks 1993-2000; and didn't respond. After 9/11, we hit back... And hit back HARD.

Putin will overplay his hand.. Esp if there's a Prez Obama.

Dan Schwartz, Sayreville, NJ, USA

Never underestimate a culture that is many times older than your own. The US should NEVER wish to provoke Russia, not with their entire military tied up in illegal wars in the Middle East. Putin was entirely justified in his entry into South Ossetia. Americans need to learn their place.

Ryan McKenna, Halifax, Canada

Let us not forget that all the U.S. and Israel (and other western countries) want is to check Russia's power and secure the transport of 'black gold' from the region and nothing else. If there was no oil in the picture would they really care as much about Georgia???

Jay, Houston, TX,

How is the US any different from Russia! We invaded Iraq, which is a small helpless country. Lets not forget we (US) are responsible for 1,000,000 deaths of Iraqi military and civilians! The Iraqi people did nothing wrong to us for that kind of terror to be inflicted on them.Who are we to preach????

William , auburn, US

Laki, Heidelberg wrote:
''The Russia has been warning the West all the time, but there is no one on West listening.''
Hmmm.. no.. that's not exactly true. Some people of the West have known for ages what certain groups are up to. They are known as the ''conspiracy theorists'' in the West.

Rune, Oslo, Norway

Only just beginning. The attack on S Ossetia had 2 possible outcomes. 1 - The Russians stayed quiet and thus the west would have control over the oil flows to the Caspian prior an Iran attack. 2 - Russia responds and US forces have a pretext to go in. Outcome 2 is now going to happen. Trouble ahead

Chris, Geneva, Switzerland

Very interesting analysis - thank you.

Adam, New York, USA

This is a perfect article. Since I happened to be in the US right now, I've been folowing the english-speaking mass-media from inside. And this article is the best I've read about that war, opening the truth to the people of Earth.
Open your eyes

Egor, Saratov, Russia

Brilliant article! A+.
Bush, be carefull, don't brake your neck.

Vasiliy, Volgograd, Russia

Machiavellian! Good on you Vladimir, Ought to apply for a job conducting a world Orchestra. If this was not orchestrated by the Russians, how come their forces just happened to be in the right place for such a rapid ( and brutal) response? The military doesn't work like that.

Mike Kunz, Launceston, Tasmania/Australia

Russia has all resources to be called "Super Power". As well as United States. And Super Powers always had tendency to use military means in protecting national interests and expanding influence. It would never change. As of Georgian president, it seems he is more of a card player then politician.

Andrew, New York, USA

Poland and Czech are not very smart !
They will be sacrificial pawn on a nuclear first strike: Russia's first strike will take them out a couple second before the main strike to the US ! Feel very sorry for them....

Harry, Big Bear, US

Putin was 15 hours late. He should have done it when first Russian solder has been killed by Saakashili regime.
Same thing that Israel did when Hamas captured(not killed!) one Isralei soldier. Russia finally learned that it need to protect Russian citizens. Nurnberg cries for Saakashvili

George, Philadelphia, USA

> Which of Russia's neighbours doesn't want to host a missile
> defence system now..
Pretty much everybody else: Belarus, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan. Not to mention such allies as Mongolia and China.

Igor, Toronto,

To Bob in Colorado : If another world war started in Europe it would be solely down to your countrys foreign policy and it's total disregard for international law. How do you suggest we go about solving that problem?

Becky, Exeter,

I live in south-eastern part of the Ukarine, and most of us (citizens of Kharkov, Donbass, Crimea, Odessa and other south-eastern cities) don't support Georgia’s murders in Ossetia and don’t support attempts to push Ukraine into NATO

Eugeny, Ukraine,

Putin struck at a good time. The "anti-war" elements in the US have won over. If another World War starts right now against Europe, most people in the US would again wait 2 years before joining. Let Europe handle its own problems for once.

Bob Mnemos, Durango, Colorado, USA

This article is biased, it's too much pro-russian. It is stupid to view Russia as a victim. And how we, the Baltic states, can forget soviet russia when my grandparents have been sent to siberia for nothing, land has been taken from them and so on. Do you really expect us to believe russia changed?

Karolis, Vilnius, Lithuania

Instead of gaining an image and respect of "superpower" by contributing to global economy and stability, Putin decided to demand his status by force. I see nothing "mastery" in his politics. Likely the world learned about true Putin's ambitions before Russia became a real superpower.

Zuisky, Petersburg,

Well Done- A story that provides facts and not fiction!!!!!

Art , Dallas,TX, USA

Ultimately this action will hurt Russia. Who of their neighbors and client states will not remember the long and brutal history of Russian rule now? Thanks, Putin, for reminding the world of Russia's spots, which haven't changed. Trust in the Bear's toothy smile will be hard to come by for Putin.

chris, Phoenix, USA

Good article. But quite frankly most of us have our own thoughts. Mine is... Russia crossed the line when they moved into Georgia proper. As for those who think we the USA fear Russia. BEST JOKE OF THE DAY.

Greg, Jeffersonville, Indiana

It is the strong EU/US pro-Georgia support that eventually forced Putin to back off – not his “ingenuity.”

Alex, NYC,

To the Russians... Double bluff?

Which of Russia's neighbours doesn't want to host a missile defence system now..

Andy, London, UK

Russia plays for the long term. The USA is always for the short term objective. So yes, chess is a good analogy.

andrew, cirencester,

Finally truth

Victor, Torotno, Canada

The game is not over yet, in the long run, any and all new actions by Russia will be looked upon with suspicion and mistrust. No wonder the other break any nations want to align themselves with the west. They know what it is like to under an iron fist.

Ray Heny, San Diego, USA

Putin trap for Georgia? The only mistake Georgia made was that it moved before solidifying NATO membership.

Countries involved in the ABM process will rush to seek additional assurances. The Poles and the Czechs will rush to the ABM table. Even the Ukraine will see that only NATO = security.

CW, Sugar Land, TX, USA

Ukraine will never become a part of NATO after this. The orange revolution was another Neo-Con American Wet dream thats fizzling out fast.

Georgia just thought they'd be carpetbombed with SUV's, BigMacs., Reality TV and iPods on the double if they could just give Russia the proverbial 'shocker'.

Neal DaCunha, Marsh Harbor, United States

Brilliant article! It's Russia tolerant and it makes you think. Thank you for not criticising Russian Federation's actions as people do here in Northern America. Russia has to fight two battles: the real one and media war. In my opinion the second one is harder. Keep up the good work!

Natalia, Moscow, Russian Federation

The best article on the war of Russia-Georgia west.
thank you

Nicholas, LARNACA, CYPRUS

Pro-cheskist propagandists like the author of this article should share the responsibility of Russian leadership and propagandists in the futute Nuremberg like process on Russian war crimes at Caucasus. Don't forget what Russia did with Chechnya, exterminating 1/3 of its population.

Igor, moscow,

Why is West trying to make people scared of Russia.. 4 hours after the Georgian attack on Tshinvali, Russia was the only one to ask UN to interfere and resolve the conflict. And UN simply rejected Russia. None of the western media sources said anything about this. And you call this Human Rights?

Alexander Elliston, Moscow, Russia

beautiful piece and one that needs to be read here in the U.S. Good job, and thank you...


Eric, Chicago

eric drury, Chicago, United States

No one is mentioning that one major reason Saakashvili invaded Ossetia in the first place was because he got the full speed ahead from McCain and Scheunemann. McCain has shown us he will do anything (just like Bush did) to win this election, including backing an invasion on innocent Ossetians.

Judy, Tigard, US

For once we read some elements of truth from a Western journalist! The America needs to learn from history - no autocratic powers last forever! It is up to America to use its power & influence positively to gain the love and respect of people of the world and thus enjoy this for long, or otherwise!

Azeez Olaide, Birmingham, United Kingdom

Congratulation for this article. It's so difficult get a impartial, truly and intelligent report in our western print media.

Mark, london,

Observation: CNN showed Georgian bombers destroying Tshinvali and commented it as "Russia attacks Georgia".
The question is: Can Russia's actions actually be called an invasion?
South Osetia REFUSED to be a part of Georgia. And genocide was Georgia's response to that.

Bogdan, St.-Petersburg, Russia

Nice to read an article on this subject that seems to be based on fact. I had been beginning to think that I was Winston Smith. Well done. Keep it up!

Steve, Argyll, Scotland

Thank you Mr. Binyon. Unlike most of your colleagues, you seem to have been good at History classes. Being a Ukrainian with ties in Georgia and living in Russia after a good many years in the West, I can see the difference. Your piece comes as close to truth as this crippled world's sanity allows.

Vadim, Moscow, Russia

Bravo! Finally a sane voice in a western coverage.

Leonid Korolkov, Alpharetta, GA, USA

Outstanding article, one of the few objective articles I have seen in the media. It truly exposes the hipocrisy and double standards that the US has used throughout. I don't even know how they have the face to stand in front of a podium and lecture on respect for national sovereignty.

Andy, NC, US

Thank god for BBC World and the UK media.
Watching CNN/MSNBC/FoxNews and reading our print media you get the feeling Russia is the old Soviet Union. No context is give for the current conflict only nice polishes hysteric from Sakaashvilli.

I can see why NeoCons we so easily seduced by Sakashvilli.

Devon Cartwright, Dothan, AL, United States

Superb, balanced, insightful article.

Chanaka , Leicester, UK

Now the Americans have people there protecting the ports and airports.
I wonder when they will leave?

Tim, Toronto,

Not much mentioned but the Israeli connection may be significant-1000 'advisors' in Georgia I am told, and the Minister of Defence in Georgia alshas Israeli citizenship I am informed-maybe incorrectly-but it all seems to me that outside influences were at work here-and its backfired against the West

Jon Kent, Hertford, UK

Thanks Michael

Donatas, St Peterburg, rus

For Georgian president:

I could not work,
I dared not rob.
Therefore I lied to please the mob.
Now all my lies are proved untrue
And I must face the men I slew.
Tell me; what lies shall serve me here among
Mine angry and defrauded young?

Rudyard Kipling "Epitaph for A Dead Politician"

Alexey Vasilyev, St. Petersburg, Russia

Diffficult to see why Michael Binyon should take such a pro-Russian stance. Nobody as yet knows what went on in South Ossetia It is still likely the whole thing was a Russian ploy to grab a pipeline

scott, bordeaux, france

An excellent balanced article. It echoes what George Friedman says in stratfor.com The west is reaping what it sowed.

William Thomson, Guildford, UK

Simply Brilliant.

Awesome. I am lost for words - it exposes double standards.

Vishal Patel, London, UK

The real test will come when Ukraine is to become a NATO member. A country of considerable size and 43 million inhabitants. Not so easy to defeat for the Russians as Georgia, even counting the Russian minority. The West will not stand by in this case, the whole thing might well go nuclear then.

Michael Brietenhagen, Leipzig, Germany

Excellent article,

Stew, Shanghai,

The West has certainly made some mistakes in this Not-So-Great-Game. The President of Georgia clearly overvalued his position. Russia also blundered. Leaving S. Ossetia and invading Georgia will only provide more support to Georgia and Ukraine. Instead of check-mate Russia has only scored a check.

Charles, Cambridge, MA, USA

The only Hubris here is Putin's - who could not resist the US bait. Do you think the acceleration of events in Ossetia was random? Expect the US Military Led 'Aid' effort to be looking to stay, hence russian intransigence about leaving.

Graham, London,

An excellent article, factually flawless.

Seamus Martin, Belfast,

the best article abt this short war written by a western journalist
hat's off Micheal...

lkd, toronto, canada

The US has been trying to bring a military alliance to Russia's borders for the last decade in violation of their promise not to. Why do Europeans continue to let USA meddle in Europe's business and destabilize the continent. There can be no European security without Russia.

Daniel, Philadelphia, USA

The Russia has been warning the West all the time, but there is no one on West listening. What happened now, Russia hit very hard on the table. All are waked up now from that shock wave. Russia sad enough is enough from the West.
This is 21 century and World is not the same for the West also.

Laki, Heidelberg,

I am truly terribly sad for what is happening, for the security of Georgian people and their territory's integrity.
However, there is an "enabling background" to it. Ten years ago, BJ Clinton & NATO "brilliantly" bombarded Serbs into submission and put UCK terrorists in power in Kosovo. Remember?

Gilles Simon-Georges, Bozeman, USA

Great article!!!
I'm Russian and I'm proud of it.
World without Saakashvili would vin.

Dmitriy, chicago, US

Michael I think you need to speak with your correspondent at Moscoa Mark Franchetti and to read again the books of Anna who has been assassinated to tell us how it works with Putin. Putin is just doing a big mistake now: it is not because you invade a country with your army that you win.

davidsalome, Saint Petersburg, Russia

Good and weighted approach. I note, the author is trying to be objective both with respect to the Western tendentious coverage of the tragedy in South Osetia and the Russian respond to the atrocities commited by Saakashvili. One thing is sure - the West is waking up from the hypnosis.

Gennady, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Great article! It's also pity to hear the dissonance that leaders of Baltic countries bring into EU voice still blaming new Russia for Soviet mistakes even though Russia-EU transit makes the lion's share of their income.

Roman, Zurich, Switzerland

Wow! "The Times" prints an un-biased article!?!? And it's even enjoyable to read! And it's fair to Russia! OMG! It looks like Britain still has some mental capacity and sense of fair-play.

Oleg, Toronto, Canada

Thank you for the article. I find the situation so stupid... This russian-georgian war is, kind of, I don't know, like a "german-bavarian" war... Extremely stupid and pity situation for us all, russian and georgians. If talking in checkmate-terms, then I want this particular game to over...

Jurij, Petrozavodsk, Russia

At last some objectivity from the western media. Saakashvili should be tried for war crimes. He has also shown his naivety by attacking Ossetia and expecting the US to come to his aid. Georgians really need to ask themselves if he is right to lead them after this humiliating defeat.

jack, London, UK

Russia has always stuck to the settlement of conflicts through diplomacy. However, the age of diplomacy is over, USA makes no appearances any more and imposes bellicose actions and double standards. When these standards start operating, it turns against USA.

Yulia Lyman, Moscow, Russia

Unfortunately many Russian like Sasha can not distinguish between explanation of Russian behaviour (lost empire etc)and approval of it. Many countries had empires, but it does not mean that we should condone it in 2008. Unless Russian analyse why they have so few friends, nothing will ever change.

Andrew, London, UK

Dear Mr. Binyon! I'm really surprised & very much grateful to you for your realistic & honest approach to the problem.

Yuri, Kiev, Ukraine

The power play and this well written article just goes to show
how the UN security council is abused and used for national self interests. I do not hear the words.. international community any longer.... One rule for the 5 permanent members and 1 rule for other nations. Hypocracy beyond belief.

George, NY, USA

This is probably one of a few sound and well balanced articles I read in the Times over the last days. Really brilliant. Thanks! P.S. Most others look like being inspired by Messrs Bush and Saakashvili propaganda.

Alexander, Moscow, Russia

Check - yes; Mate - nyet!

Bob Hall, New York, United States

Omg! Do I see an article, where Russia is not presented as The Empire of Darkness lead by the evil and merciless Emperor PalPutin? What a surprise. Nevertheless, my complements to the author.

Sergei, Kiev, Ukraine

Brave enough for the out-of-Russia based author. Glad to see a man capable of thinking instead of "writer" only able to listen and to nutate, having zero knowledge of both history and geography...

Ivan, Moscow,

Oh, the poor mistreated Russians. So misunderstood. Glad to see the typical European moral equivalency on display here. Freedom and Democracy? Well the hell with that! We just need to find a reason to keep from having to do anything.

john, atlanta, usa

Agree with the points about Moscow being able to counter any Georgian PR. However, I wouldn't go so far as to say that Putin has checkmated the West. It was just a good tactical move in an ongoing chess game. But it will just lead to more hostile relations between Russia and the West. They can't win

David Michael, London, UK

Many thanks to the author. I begin to notice that modern Russia looks in many areas (deplomacy, military, administration) better than its western counterparts. What confirms this article.