The reactions by Eastern Europe, the Balitcs, the other former republics (most importantly Ukraine) and the western investments in the Russian Federation will all be used as leverage against the Russians. This is going to backfire in their face. Their stock market has already dropped 6% and western firms will begin leaving (they already have in the last year) due to Russia’s reminiscence of its Soviet days.
Many on this board are foolishly calling for direct military intervention. That, with all due respect, is beyond retarded.
Lets say Puerto Rico gained its independence from the USA, and one section of it occupied by American citizens, was attacked by the new government, we would respond. I’m not saying that Russia is right in this, but you have to understand the dynamics of the situation. Regardless if it is right on their part or not, we have to make decisions based on the national security of the USA, not Georgia.
You are absolutely correct we can’t respond.
But I see it differently. Fear of Russia’s willingness to resort to military action will allow it to intimidate bordering nations. Other countries will knuckle under, lest they suffer Georgia’s fate.
I bet the Ukraine quickly finds an excuse to let the Soviet fleet back in its port...