Topic: Georgian Politics

3 ways the US can start an economic 'reset' with Russia

After Russian President Vladimir Putin canceled his trip to Camp David for the G8 Summit this weekend, tensions between Russia and the US are running high. The United States must design a new relationship with this often difficult leader and his country. Washington needs a new reset that includes these three key components:

Why Russia is planning Iran war games

Russia has reportedly ordered the military to plan war games to deal with potential spillover from a US-Iran conflict.

Ahead of Russian elections, quashed Ossetia vote embarrasses Moscow

The crushing of an apparently legitimate election victory in South Ossetia, a key client state of Moscow, could bring a fresh wave of unwanted attention to Russia's own problematic democracy.

Russia, Georgia remain in distrustful deadlock on anniversary of 2008 war

The US Senate this week called on Russia to stop its 'occupation' of two breakaway enclaves that were once part of Georgia. But both sides appear to be hardening their positions.

How exposing corrupt regimes can serve US security

Foreign corruption undermines development, US interests, and ultimately US security. The fight against foreign corruption and the success of US policy are linked. That's why the US needs to implement country reports on corruption to increase transparency and encourage change.

Is Georgia on the brink of a 'day of rage'?

A lack of economic progress may help account for mounting protests against Georgian President Mikhael Saakashvili. On Sunday, police used tear gas and rubber bullets to break up a mostly peaceful rally. A 'day of rage' is slated for May 25.

People-powered democratic revolts - do they last?

Analyzing a selection of political revolutions - successful and not - around the globe since World War II

How 5 revolutions got their names

Questions are cropping up about the appropriateness of calling Tunisia's uprising the "Jasmine Revolution" – stemming from the fact that the term has been used in reference to Syria in 2005 and even the path that brought ousted Tunisian President Ben Ali to power. But the moniker could stick, at least partially because it's become a tradition of sorts to name the revolutions of the 2000s after colors and flowers and even household items. Here's an overview of some of the popular revolutions – and their nicknames – that preceded Tunisia's ... whatever you want to call it:

Georgia nabs Russian 'spy ring,' angering Moscow

Georgia on Friday accused 13 people, including four Russians, of spying for Russia after a four-year investigation.

Hillary Clinton slams Russia over Georgia: Why Russia shrugs

Hillary Clinton criticized Russia's description of Georgia and Ukraine as part of Russian 'zones of influence.' During her five-nation visit to the region she also signed a missile defense deal with Poland. Why is Russian reaction so mild?

Hillary Clinton blasts Russia for not honoring cease-fire with Georgia

Hillary Clinton rebuked Russia on Monday for failing to live up to the cease-fire agreement it signed nearly two years ago with Georgia.

Josef Stalin statue dismantled in the middle of the night

Josef Stalin monument, displayed in his hometown of Gori, was dismantled before dawn on Friday.

Georgia elections a triumph for Saakashvili

The first Georgia elections since the country's defeat in its brief war with Russia in 2008 were a triumph for President Mikhael Saakashvili. His party rolled to victory in major cities, and observers said the poll was reasonably fair.

Polish President Lech Kaczynski plane crash death may strain Poland-Russia ties

The commemoration of the Katyn massacre was meant to be a key 'forgive and forget' moment for Poland and Russia. It may now be overshadowed by the tragic death of Polish President Lech Kaczynski, riding in a Russian-built aircraft.

Georgia opposition leader slams Russian invasion hoax in interview

Nino Burdzhanadze told the Monitor she believes that Saakashvili ordered the Russian invasion hoax to sow anti-Russia panic and tar Georgia's opposition, which has been calling for his resignation for more than a year.

Russian invasion hoax has Georgia opposition in uproar

A fake TV report in Georgia that claimed a Russian invasion was in progress and that President Mikhael Saakashvili had been killed has drawn fury from citizens and the political opposition.

Georgia's Saakashvili pushed an act for economic liberty

Pragmatism spurs Russia and Georgia toward smoother relations

Signs of a thaw between Russia and Georgia include the reopening of one border post on the major Caucasus highway and a possible move to resume direct air links. Relations between Russia and Georgia behave been in a freeze since last year's war over breakaway Georgian territories.