U.S.; Russia-Georgia Conflict

Have you been following the Russia-Georgia Conflict? Just how effective do you believe United States' interventions in behalf of Georgian interests will be? Apparently the U.S. is attempting to mediate between Russian government and that of the Republic of Georgia (not the U.S. state, of course). Since early August, Georgia has been engaged in armed conflict with separatists and the state of Russia.

I am confused, here. With the international opinions what they are--and have been for the past 5 years--about the U.S. and our international affairs, how successful will we actually be in mediating affairs of state in European or Asian countries? Won't any attempts we make to use threats of force be seen as just that, threats? Will we be seen as hostile, as opposed to the goodwill nation role that we have enjoyed in yesteryear? Could our true concern over the human rights of the besieged country's citizens be misinterpreted, construed as a bid or an attempt to take-over that same ailing territory? Now, it becomes apparent that this status which we have held as the nation so trusted to protect the underdog throughout our short history (we are a very young nation as compared to every other) might have quite possibly been significantly damaged by the hot-headed tactics and decision-making of our government during the past five years? It's devastating to consider the implications.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is at this moment making an effort to extend assurances of our support to the Georgian government and people, while warning the Russian war machine to back off, or else. When asked, or else what? She replies that the USSR is aware that this is not 1968. That in today's global community, Russia understands that they must honor the rules that govern that community or suffer dire globally-related economic sanctions, to their country's detriment.

To Ms. Rice I say, I sincerely hope that is so. I honestly wish this current American administration the best in their diplomatic interventions. I send the people of the independent territories of Georgia my heartfelt desires for a speedy and peaceful resolution to the mayhem within which their homeland had fallen. To all parties I ask for humane considerations.

What do you, most honorable reader, say? Don't be shy. Your thoughts on this matter of international relations? Put them on the table for our consideration.