The Nation: “Will Georgia Be the Next Ukraine?”

"As the world observes the continuing clash between Russia and the West in Ukraine, tensions are rising further south, in the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. Like in Ukraine, rivalries among political factions and ethnic groups in Georgia dangerously intersect with the broader Russian and Western struggle for influence in the former Soviet space. Without the dialogue necessary for peace, a serious conflict could erupt here as well, with very negative implications for regional and international security. The situation can't be ignored,” writes Pietro Shakarian for international weekly publication The Nation.

In a piece published on September 25, Shakarian gives readers a comprehensive and thought-provoking look at Georgia’s recent history and how political decisions made years ago are continuing to impact the country today.

He gives and overview of the country’s changing political environment and what impact this has had on Georgia-Russia relations. He discusses former president Mikheil Saakashvili, the charges against him by the Georgian Government and the flak this received from Georgia’s Western partners.

Could this impact on Georgia’s European and NATO integration? Would Georgia’s closer alignment with the EU impact on its already tense relations and future trade with Russia?

So what should be done? Will Georgia be the next Ukraine?

Read the full article here: http://m.thenation.com/