Guardian: Tension Between Russia, Georgia Heats Up - by Maria Danilova

Mr. Putin
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Tension Between Russia, Georgia Heats Up - by Maria Danilova

The Cold War is long over, but the tension between Georgia and Russia revisits many of its issues - allegations of spying by Moscow, suspicions of interference by the United States and concerns that a hot war will start without some sort of compromise. Last week's arrest of four Russian soldiers on charges of spying pushed a decade of animosity between Russia and Georgia to new heights. Russia recalled its ambassador, called Georgia a ``bandit state'' and stopped issuing visas to Georgians.

The United States has pursued close relations with Georgia and says its aid is aimed at boosting the country's security and democratic institutions. Last week, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Bryza urged Russia and Georgia to negotiate, but Putin echoed Russia's suspicions on Sunday. ``These people think that under the roof of their foreign sponsors they can feel comfortable and secure. Is it really so?'' Putin said.