Why Saakashvili needs Russia

Posted By Joshua Keating Tuesday, September 9, 2008 - 12:15 PM Share

The Washington Post reports today that domestic criticism of Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili is growing now that wartime freedom of speech restrictions have been lifted. But while a number of opposition figures are hoping to capitalize on the crisis that has weakened the president's political standing, all are wary of being associated with Russia's calls for Saakashvili's ouster.

For this reason, Putin and Medvedev's constant hurling of insults at Saakashvili seems counterproductive. The one thing Georgians of all political stripes seem to agree on is the need to resist Russian domination, and it will be hard for an opposition movement to gain momentum as long as it's suspected of having Russian backing. Saakashvili was using this to his advantage well before war broke out.

If Medvedev really wants to undermine Saakashvili, why doesn't he just invite him up to Sochi for the weekend?

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JOSHUA.FOUST

12:34 PM ET

September 9, 2008

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Really? If Putin or Medvedev extend an offer, Saakashvili can reject it and strengthen his position. If, instead, the opposition is quietly undermined by only seeming to be associated with Russian goals, they are much more likely to get what they want.

The Georgians are not stupid. Neither are the Russians. Treating either like they are is a recipe for disaster.

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