Gorbachev weighs in on Georgia, defends Russia

I have very little perspective of what's going on in Georgia. I've seen that Russia is pulling out troops by Friday. But I'm still confused about the situation. Most news sources seem to be placing the blame on Russia, and highlighting America's ready defense of Georgia. Not only has the U.S. administration sent people over there to help difffuse the situation, but both potential future administrations have sent people over there. And politicians all seem to be talking about kicking Russia out of the G8. Also, they're letting the superpower know that the U.S. is placing defense missiles very close to the Russian border just in case. These missiles, of course, are "aimed at no one."

Interestingly, former Soviet Union president (and former Pizza Hut spokesman) Mikhail Gorbachev has weighed in with an op-ed in the New York Times, where he scolds the press for its inability to report the situation objectively, and comes to Russia's defense.

"Russia did not want this crisis. The Russian leadership is in a strong enough position domestically; it did not need a little victorious war. Russia was dragged into the fray by the recklessness of the Georgian president, Mikheil Saakashvili."

Since I have no sense of what's actually going on there, I'm not espousing any point of view. It's just fascinating to read a very different (and very strong) take from someone who's been watching this situation from across the aisle.
Click here to see the full editorial. Thanks Lizzie!