World Threats

Despite the devastating Russo-Georgian War in August, the United States is not backing away from their small Caucasian ally. The government of Mikhail Saakashvili has appeared more wobbly since the August invasion, but thanks to American and European support, has stayed afloat. On January 4, the two nations will sign a treaty tying the two nations closer still.

Georgia sent 2,000 troops (or about 10% of its military) to assist our forces in Iraq. They were going to deploy 500 in Afghanistan before the Russian invasion. Georgia gave President Bush a warm welcome and is one of the most pro-American nations in the world. To turn our back to them in one of their darkest hours will not only doom a vibrant democracy, but would show Russia that imperialism can go unopposed.

Hopefully the fine print in the treaty will bring Georgia one step closer to joining NATO. Georgia had been rebuilding their military and again needs military and financial assistance to attempt to ward off another Russian attack. The United States announced a one billion dollar aid package to Georgia this year, and hopefully Europe and Japan can cobble together a similar package to Georgia to make sure that the nation can rebuild its infrastructure and military. Georgia was there for us. We will be there for them.