I doubt we really know what is going on here. A bit like the Iraq war, the truth will emerge at a later date. Talking of which, it was interesting how Bush was careful to emphasize this is a violation of a “democratically elected” sovereign state. I certainly don’t think Georgia is a pawn. It knows it has the moral backing of the West. I think you’ll find NATO is as much a motive for Russia, as is protecting their citizens, or possible energy grabs. Think Cuba, or Cyprus, not just Prague Springs. I’m not pro Putin, who strikes me as a little evil, but no less so than Cheney.