It's one thing to report Putin's comments on devious Bush/Cheney/Rove conspiracy but it is another to treat it seriously
and have some of the multitude of 'experts' CNN seems to have, to analyze and discuss the Putin contention. I think it deserved that.
And, by not doing it, CNN just buttressed Bush's spokesman's (I can't remember the name of the woman) argument that Putin's statement was ridiculous. It was not.

They had a hope that the journalist will deliver their perspective, another truth, distinct from that Western world and America are accustomed to. But did it happen? I am afraid not. Was journalist a coward to deliver different view, which would not satisfy or contradict generally accepted point of view? Is western civilization ready to accept the position of aggressor? Not in Georgia, Russia was silent about IRAQ Afganistan, Then Kosovo, now they, being dinted in to a corner, showed some resistant to flout of their elementary national interest: "NATO AT THE DOORSTEP", they are BAD? USA in IRAQ has ruined at least 10 times more lives than STALIN did to lithuanians. They are right? USA has ruined more lives in VIETNAM than did STALIN in GULAGS? STALIN was bad.. OK STALIN was horrible, but how do you call a country which is Dancing away whole the world.. Spreading Democracy all over it.. well the bad causes are getting CLEARER. We start to see who is the real oppressor. For him to accuse others of being evel is a way to keep in power and control. This is not only about bush, but also about democracy.

what is needed is a definitive timeline as i can't make out who shot who first.
what is relevant is that the russians appeared to be more than ready for a supposed surprise attack by georgia. at the same time, what was georgia thinking, that nato would invade moscow? the timing of this w/ the world's eye on beijing is the stuff that gives blood to conspiracy theories.

" Georgia played the media game, Russia did not." –
It makes clear everythink.
It is pity that Mr. Chance grates teeth like his collegue from FOX.
Putin told much more important things to him. Where it is?

Excellent piece to cover what was a particularly unprecedented level of access, and well-laden with revelation for that matter. I enjoy your serious international coverage quite well, and it is an excellent addition to Reuter-like feeds.

But should we fear Russia, knowing as you say, that their internal views are rarely expressed? Does Russia assume we know what they mean when they invade a country like georgia? Are we led to incomplete conclusions based on visually charged imagery and the horrors of human suffering, and to what extent does our duty to gather multiple viewpoints in a timely manner lead to a newsroom scenario where incomplete sampling and cognitive bias lead to character-driven projections of hasty analysis?

Your article was an excellent example of clean "debugging" of the one-side communication problem.
Whilst we all naturally express disgust at any violence in our world, especially inter-state violence, these events do not occur of and by themselves.

It is quite possible, and indeed likely that Putin's Russia is not interested in engaging or "robbing" any foreign state per se, at least not outright, but any Bear when bit will react swiftly, and our characterisation of Russia as the natural aggressor is tenuous at best. I agree that they have enormous destructive power, and that any use of violence is unacceptable by our standards. But we must also accept that we do not know the extent to which problems with Georgia impact Russia's ability to operate as a struggling Nation. And as it is struggling, we can expect a far more draconic administration to be in power, for order could not exist without it. So Russia's hardline policy with aggravation along it's borders may be similiar in notion to an internal reaction to unrest, etc. I'd rather them keep order and control their nuclear stockpile than act as the ultimate good citizen. As always, the moral boundaries become hazy, and reconciliation is hard to rationalize, making analysis a heartache at best. But consider the Bear.

In this case, modern Russia is actually a partially blinded Bear – nowadays they have little Satellite Reconnaisance resources available to them, and those that they do have are mostly IR remote-launch early warning satellites.
They work well on the ground, the air, the sea – using more traditional methods, yes, but time-tested all the same. Or at least they would, were their armed forces not so demoralised and underpaid.

Relations with Russia will have to improve if we are to attempt to bring stability to our world, and for that to occur, conditions in Russia must improve. Russia holds the promise of becoming America's ultimate ally and confidant if reciprocal trust and mutual obligation can be realised in our time. It is through the vast expanse of the former Soviet territory that europe, through israel, the middle east, and far east may find an anchor point – and where the global-warming savannah croplands of the future may indeed be harvested, transforming many areas of russia into more habitable territory, so that those most in need of protection from global warming – our brothers and sisters in Africa, may seek refuge, immigration and most of all, food.

If we want Russia to share it's wealth in the future, we will need to meet them on a respectful grounding, meet their need for financial and other support, and likewise meet our need for nonviolence, financial transparency, anti-crime cooperation and global security assurances.

Great article, maybe the first one which is to me looks neutral and objective, without traditional hatred of Russia. Don't think it would appear on foxnews site. So please keep this way, showing always 2 versions and let reader make his own judgments based on full unbiased information and don't follow old clichés.

don't all media personalities do this? a writer wants to be interviewed when a new book is forthcoming. same for movie stars and – - politicians. he had something to say, so he called in for an interview. interesting to hear this behind-the-scenes take.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chance, for giving the world a good CHANCE through your interview to see Putin's real face and the "fantastic" flow of his logic. As I have heard, George W. Bush had said about Putin that he could see "soul" in Putin's eyes. It is so unfortunate that US President was so much misled... And yes, I (as well as everyone else, I think) do completely "agree" with Mr. Putin that the banning of those US companies has really nothing to do with Georgia crisis. They had a similar ban about Georgian products last year, and that too, of course, had nothing to do with politics (sarcastically said, of course). I DO hope, the world will see and realize that Russia is never going to change, because they carry imperialistic feelings in their genes. Double standards is also a normal thing to them. When it was about separatism in Chechnya, Putin wiped the whole region out of the earth, and no one knows how many thousands of people he killed. That was "constitutional". But... when it comes to other countries, he gladly supports separatists in Georgia. When President Reagan called Soviet Union the "Evil Empire", I am sure he was referring mostly to Russia – the heart and soul of the Soviet Union. The mentality of that state still remains the same. One would think the 21st century would change that evil and heal the world from this desease. But what applies to most of nations and civilized world, does not apply to Russia. The world has known many empires that eventually collapsed, and, hopefully, sooner or later Russia will share their fate. Until then, however, it will try to sour the lives of everyone around. That should be stopped. Russia should be stopped. STOP RUSSIA! Under this slogan Georgians will form a live chain on September 1, and we plea the world to join us in our fight for freedom and against Russian occupation!

The interview gave some food for thought.
in politics things are definitely not always what they seem.

It's sad that we can't share the world's resources in a civilized way.

When Zakaria states that it is Russia who has overstepped its bounds, he is mistaken. It is Bush who has overstepped his bounds all over the world! The U.S. is acting as Agent Provocateur by supplying military aid to Georgia and trying to get them into NATO along with the Ukraine, thereby isolating Russia from Europe. Bush is putting missiles in Poland and radar in the Czech Republic. What Russia has done is to draw a line in the sand and say to Bush: "You have gone too far, NO FURTHER!" Russia is simply trying to guard its boarders from U.S. influence and intrigue. For Bush to criticize Russia is like the pot calling the kettle black.

When viewed from the Russian point of view, you can understand why they are concerned about their Western boarders. It was from Poland and Eastern Europe that Germany launched Operation Barbarossa. This was one reason Stalin moved troops into this area after WWII.

The U.S. had promised Gorbetchev that we would not seek any former Soviet states into NATO after the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, we have recently been trying to get Georgia and the Ukraine into NATO. This seems unusual when one considers that NATO was originally formed to counter the Warsaw Pact. Now with the Warsaw Pact no longer in existence, one wonders what is the purpose of NATO? The fact that Russia wants to keep the Ukraine and Georgia out of NATO is understandable. It would be like Russia trying to get Mexico to join the Warsaw Pact.

The fact is that it is very difficult for George Bush to wave his finger at Russia for invading the sovereign nation of Georgia, when Bush in fact did the same to Iraq. It could be argued that Georgia is closer to Russia geographically, and therefore more important to them for security reasons, than Iraq is to the U.S. Let’s not forget that the U.S. created a naval blockade (an act of war) against the Soviet missiles in Cuba (even though we had missiles in Turkey), because Cuba was considered our “sphere of influence.” Russia considers Georgia to be in their “sphere of influence.” Now we are putting missiles in Poland and Eastern Europe!

We immediately recognized Georgia’s sovereignty not because of its democratic values, but because of its strategic location (plus it supports our occupation of Iraq). Russia has oil and gas going into Europe, and we wanted to counter that with another pipeline running through Georgia from Baku. We have sent Special Forces military advisors to Georgia, and this is perceived as a threat to Russia. Russia sees Georgia using U.S. Military aid and equipment against breakaway South Ossetia, in particular the city of Tskhinvali. Would we stand idly by as Puerto Rico was assisted by Russia in breaking away from the U.S.?

We have much more difficulty diplomatically in addressing this issue, when we failed to exercise diplomacy prior to invading Iraq. The fact is that what we are saying is “don’t do as I do, do as I say.” This double standard is expressed in the Wolfowitz doctrine as “preemptive strikes.” We have failed to take a high road on the world stage, and this has opened the door for other powerful nations to follow our lead. I am sure that if Russia were meddling in the internal affairs of Mexico, we would probably invade Mexico as well.

Very good arcticle.

Last sentence is a key. Boycots lead nowhere.

I am surprised to see Putin giving interiew to CNN. Western media has been very biased towards Georgia during this conflict. In fact here in Germany i always used to watch BBC and CNN for at least 1 hour every day. However this time i felt cheated by CNN/BBC. Now i have added Russia today in my porfolio to get a view of the other side. I am still searching for a channel which will give me a complete and true picture. Any suggestions?

Mr. Chance.

I do not expect to see my comment shown here – because they are moderated, and I'm not expecting that CNN will allow it to be shown publicly. This is why I'm submitting it to a number of other publicly available Internet forums as well.

However, I'll try nevertheless...
Mr. Chance – your blog post is full of doublethink and subliminal messages to CNN readers who, mostly, can not find their brain with flashlight and GPS instructions.
Here's some of examples where you trying to create 'an image of an enemy':
– Western press is welcomed in Kremlin and you know this;
– claiming Mr. Putin as 'KGB spy' isn't correct at the very least. Besides, why don't you mention – just to deliver a well balanced information for a change – that some of of US highly ranked officials were and are having very close relations with CIA?
– you're paying so much attention to the tiny fact of banning a number of US poultry producers off Russian's market? Why do you repeatedly suggesting, that it has any political roots?

Besides, please don't neglect the fact that world (and I even include CNN's ignorant audience in this list) is using modern means of communications like Internet. Most of you and your colleagues hint can be easily crosschecked. And people are getting the actual picture of the conflict no matter what impression the major news sources like CNN and Faux News are trying to imprint into their audience's brains.

With regards

I'm a Canadian living in Sevastopol, Ukraine and one question that keeps sticking in my mind that no one seems to be reporting is what does China think about all of this? Why doesn't someone ask them? Get the 3rd super power involved more.

Thank you, Matthew for this article. I personally, don't like Mr. Putin and what he is doing in general, but I didn't like at all how CNN has shown this battle in its reports. To tell you the true, before this war,I watched CNN and other western media as a single true channels, where I could find the real stories. It has changed after this Georgia\ Ossetia recent battles. I was a bit disappointed but the way CNN has displayed it to the world.

Putin is HOT!!!!

Mathew, what i see on CNN is a true pro-georgian propaganda. this is the worse news channel not only here, in US, but in the entire world. From day to day you fed us with the same picture showing the same Russia tank. Somehow you completely forgotten that Russia was responding to the Geogia attacking S. Ocetia. You are #1 anti-Russian channel! you can be proud of this. If feel there is no enough access to S. Ocetia, at least try to research the Internet, Utube etc. Tons of shocking information about geogians killing S. Ocetians. Somehow you brain does not question the fact that US did the same back to 1983 invading Grenada, in 2001 bombing Afgans etc. You are promoting double Bush standards. I am also sick of seeng crazy geogian president 24×7 on CNN!

[...] CNN, Putin, Wen Jiabao - omnologos @ 22:23:43 Matthew Chance of CNN writes about his interview with Vladimir Putin, some 7 years after the last one for the American news channel: Putin [...] was constantly watching [...]

Will Putin’s CNN Interview Herald a New Era of Media-Savvy International Leaders?

http://omnologos.wordpress.com/2008/08/29/will-putins-cnn-interview-herald-a-new-era-of-media-savvy-international-leaders/

[...] Interestingly, the lesson of how to avoid a bad press has been recently learned by Prime Minister Wen Jiabao of China too. Next in line should be Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, and Mohammed Ahmadinejad of Iran. [...]

Russia did not expect this play from Saakashvili. He had his plan organized, whether with US help or not. The west has to understand that, and look at the problem from Russia´s point of view too. I am Russian and i don't entirely believe my government, but its not fair what the western media does.

good story.I am glad someone is telling it.how Russia protected a small ethnic group that was nearly destroyed by an aggressive madman Saakashvili who started bombing a civilian populated Osettian city,Also why should not Ossetia and Abkhazia be recognized while Kosovo that was for centuries Serbian was granted independence.Double standards to say the least.US government always twists any situation to benefit its own proxies without any respect for international law or objectivity

GREAT ARTICLE, I THINK WESTERN MEDIA HAS ALWAYS BEEN BIASED AGAINST THE RUSSIANS AND THE CHINESE REGARDLESS THE ACCESS, BUT THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN FAIR AND HUMANE, THERE IS NO DOUBT THAT THE GEORGIANS AND AMERICANS STIRRED UP THE CONFLICT IN THE FIRST PLACE. I LIKED PUTIN, HE IS GREAT FOR HIS COUNTRY AND PEOPLE,SO WHAT HE KILLED A FEW OR HAS BLOOD ON HIS HANDS!

I hope now Americans will understand, who is a real aggressor. Putin tells the truth. After opening of the Olympic Games Putin has gone to solve a problem, and Bush had a good time with sportswomen. It can confirm a photo. Georgia has attacked Ossetia, and America helped Georgia.

Keep the lie alive, Mattew!!! No access to information??? Shame1

It's funny to read this..... CNN brainwashing in action)

Interesting whether such late understanding of the reasons of a bad press and too late (as I think) efforts to correct the situation would help.

Very well, very professional reported! We should get much more of that! thank you! G. Hoffmann

I have a feeling that things are about to get ugly between the U.S. and RUssia....I also believe Vladamir Putin is right about the U S having more to do with this conflict ,,, I dont trust this BUsh administration..they have repeatedly been caught with there pants down..and although we see it with our own eyes bush and cheney say oh no you dont see it !! The things that Condolizza Rice and Bush are saying only provoke RUssia....Those two have to remember..they are not speaking to some third world country like Iraq or Pakistan....CHina and Russia are Major Players .Also.. sending a missle destroyer to deliver humanitarian relief was not very smart now Russia answered with three missle destroyers...signing the accord with Poland to put anti-missle defense right in russias face....Great great.... I said george bush would start the cold war all over again back when he was elected....I am right.......lets keep an eye on our government..... I want to live a little longer!!!!!!!! THomas
Ohio

If the situation in Georgia wasn't so serious , it would be laughable .

Saakashvilli literally thought he could sneak and retrieve South Osetia while 'mighty ' Putin was away in Beiging watching the games opening ceremony . Simply , ' hyperactive ' Georgian President who seem to act before thinking misjudged the situation and fell headlong into a well laid trap laid for him . Russia knew he would come , but it was a question of time .

This Article by Matthew Chance hits the nail on the head ; in the sense that their was so much initial misinformation from the Western Media about reporting the war that it looked so one-sided to the advantage of Saakashvilli and Georgia . It looked like the biblical David and Goliath . It was obvious Saakashvilli was emboldened to strike while big Cat Putin was away because he thought America and NATO will quickly intervene militarily and dare I say , hasten Georgia's entry into NATO .

Re this article , of course Russia learnt the hard way that in these days of instant news dissemination , the Georgian President was more media savvy , he could speak and adapt to any of the three to four languages to the media men who were dancing to his every tune -until ' big daddy bear ' PUTIN came home , took charge of the situation , put his tail between his legs -invited the 'devil CNN and waged a counter media offensive . Events there is still very much unfolding -but not according to the Script written by Georgia and its ' UN-LEVEL-HEADED President . '

Where is the interview itself? I don't need Matthew's comments. I am following the situation in Georgia during 17 years, sometimes from the inside and I am really shocked and disappointed how much lie appears, especially from CNN, which I believed was the most trusted media name (unfortunately WAS).
Why do you think Russia invaded Georgia? – for creating so many consequential political and economical difficulties for itself? And since Russia is already did so and predicted everything why Russians didn't take Tbilisi and entire Georgia?
Something is wrong here and you shouldn't replace facts with your opinions.

Sincerely,
Pavel.

So has the cold war really come back? Or did it ever leave.

To refer to the prime minister of Russia ( and former president) as ´the guy´´ ( not the Man) , also to call him a former ´´spy´´ (not an Agent) is a show of biased ,uneducated and gross attitude, by someone definitely not fit to be a ´´senior ´´ correspondent for a responsible news agency .

As an American living in Moscow, I have been sorely disappointed by the media coverage of the Georgian conflict. This interview highlights exactly why. Saakashvili, Columbia law school educated, knows precisely how to play the media game, and he played it rather well. It is unfortunate that media access in Moscow is not what it has been in Tbilisi, but this is no excuse for the blatantly wrong reporting of events in the region. Georgia started this by causing the deaths of numerous Russian citizens and soldiers; there is no question about this fact.

If media was more concerned with reporting the facts on the ground instead of sensationalising it wouldnt matter what level of media access was granted. The was yet another example of shotty factless (misleading to say the least to outright lies) reporting to mislead the public to support of more mliltary aggression or a cover for future events in Iran. No access to a countrys leader is no excuse for not reporting the facts. Everyone now knows Georgia invaded Ossetia first now it appears with american and israeli support.

Matthew Chance is right. It seems that the Russians are still living in the old Soviet days when it comes to communication with the world. Before this conflict took place, people around the world hardly knew anything about the problems in that region, and even less ever heard about places called South Ossetia or Abkhazia. Personally, I believe that the Russians would have done a better job if they had let the world know about the problems in the region, and had allowed international observers into the region before taking any decision to invade Georgia. Maybe the use of military force would have been avoided, and the conflict could have been solved peacefully.

This article appears to be written by a 5th grader, not an international correspondent for one of the largest news organizations in the world. Come on CNN, show some journalistic Savvy. I don't buy into any of Putins' rhetoric nor should I. Many people have been expecting this from Russia for years. The reason they spoke with CNN is a sham....just like their President Medvedev. Wake up Matt Chance.

I saw the video of the interview. He was cold. But when he claimed that Americans had been on the ground in South Ossetia, and it came to evidence of this claim, he looked down to the side, as if unsure, or as if he knew his evidence was very thin. As if he knew he had said too much.

Anyway, even if a few CIA operatives would indeed have been there – and that's well possible -, that would in no way prove that the U.S. had incited the Georgians. Should there indeed have been Americans there, then probably for observation and intelligence.

And a word about Putin: I think that he is a strong and good leader ("good" referring to what he sees as Russia's and his own interests), but weak and unsecure as a person. All this machismo, judo black belt, confronting NATO, defeating Saakashvili, serves his whish to be admired – cool and great. There's nothing wrong with that as long it serves the bigger issues.
Maybe this insecurity of his, the "risks" of an interview is one of his reasons for avoiding them.

I already sent you my comment but you didn’t publish it, I think, because it was a disagreement with your position.
The Soviet Union is the last place where such situation was possible and different opinion was not acceptable by communists’ officials.
My congratulations!

This is a great breakthrough for cnn no doubt....But where is the story...All I read was you got an interview and how exciting it was for you....Russia is being disrespected in many ways...As a super power and Americas current ally, to an extent.. we must honor Russia for its choice with georgia....War is never the best choice, but with all that is going on in the world, it seems as if america is preparing for something much bigger than we citizens know of...The missle bases are a huge issue, russia takes it as a threat and if any country were doing it on americas borders would we not be concerned??? I think when Putin met with Irans president and stood next to him claiming them as friends and that Russia would not allow any country to attack Iran , Americans like Bush took it as if Russia has choosen its side, and Iran is not on ours...I have bad feeling for what is to come...America is stepping on alot of toes...We tell china how to treat its neighbors, we tell Russia how to treat theirs...We say who can have nukes and who cant...As an American myself I love my country , but our leaders need to stay out of others business...There are over 6 billion people on this planet and under a half of a billion live in the U.S. .......AS I see it we have far more enemieas than friends and if we do not watch how our leaders are treating the other super powers we might be attacked and if china russia and all of our oher enemies unite, it could mean the end of America as we know it...We are on a very thin line , and with the weapons that exist, it could be ugly for us...Russia fears no one !!! Bush is leaving office but in his last few months he is poking at a hornets nest, and as usual the coward runs and leaves the mess for others to clean up...I think Bush should be removed from office and impeached for numerous crimes he and his administration has commited...We know but we put our heads down and bite our lips...Other countries know that if insane McCain takes over, America will be at war, and this may be the last war...Many people predict he world ends in 2012...I just hope it is not true, but like I said all that is going on it may be.....sad but true !!!!!

I think Russia realised media is an important weapon during such hard times of isolation and one sided if not biased world reporting.

"He was constantly watching CNN to see how the conflict was being reported. And he didn’t like it. He hated it. He hated seeing Mikheil Saakashvili appealing for Western support, he hated that there was no one on TV putting across the Russian version of events." – To the author follows it is engaged by a fiction writing.
Putin has told, that intrusion of Georgia into South Ossetia has not received illumination in the western press, in particular in CNN

Which ever way you think of it, the truth and the bottomline is that your international coverage was and still is too baised against Russia. Be more open and dont judge in such sensitive international reports.

Cease to say lies! Where Putin's all speech from interview CNN?! People soon will understand, how you were dishonoured!

check this

Where can I find the full transcript of this interview with Putin?

Enough! He is scared and knows that if Russia really gets punished for what he's done either Him or Medvedyev would be there to blame and then one of them would need to pay. That's why this coward is trying to present to the World "Russian Truth". They are Liars and you know Why? Because we let them talk and we listen! Putin needs to explain how those Osetians or Abkhazians had Russian passports for several years when living in Georgian Territory... They just tried to pay the Wst back for Serbia and Kosovo and trying to put that example in every possilbe ways. He tried to find support amon Asian allies and now that didn't work and of course who is left the Media, where you can play with words, just like he foold the whole world that he was this innocent little man (dwarf);))) Enough!

Saying that the foreign media were not allowed to go to the Russian side of the conflict zone and that no Russian officials were available to talk to you as usual is rubbish.

For example general Nogovitsin was always ready to talk to anyone. There were also other officials such as Lavrov and many other people.
But CNN preffered not to show what was happening in Tskhinvali for the American president ordered not to do so.

Putin is smart and strong - which why he's also frightening.

Bush and kandoliza are very stupid people :-) Russian goes...

I am also watching CNN and I am disappointed. Did CNN show this interview fully, not just fragments with comments?

Good on you cnn...Russia desrves to be heard

It is a Putin's way of telling the world that ,what US did in Afghanistan , and Iraq , Russia could do in Georgia and then in Poland, then in Ukraine. The new map of coldwar is being sketched on the European map , previosly Berlin wall was the iron curtain , now it is a little eastwards across Poland , Ukraine and Georgia

They talked to you just to use you. They don't give a damn about the press, in particular a free press, as Russia has no such thing. CNN will just be the distribution point for the same propaganda that Russia has used for centuries to control the popluation. And CNN fell for it....back in the debate, please, make me sick.

Please provide a video interview, not your 'analysis', cause it seems like you do exactlly like described in last paragraph

Putin is DEVIL, real KGB oficer, he admires Stalin and cries for USSR. Is not everything clear???

After years of teaching Bush how to subvert the US media, Putin finally takes a lesson in media himself.

"Why was there no one? Because there is no access in Russia..." What a lie!!! Please, indicate honestly who, when and where was blocked from seeing the Russian side. Please, disclose it and let the Russians see the true face of our govt. Most of urban population here CAN WATCH CNN in addition to our "propaganda" as you call it. So far I have been seeing numerous missinterpretings (I can tell), no or too little coverage of August 7 to 9 events, complete mess with photos.

Very useful information. Putin also spoke to a German News Channel recently and he seemed pretty angry with the western media on the Georgian conflict. In my opinion Putin is a supreme politician. Just compare how George Bush usually speaks (by reading his speech) and how Putin personally interacts with the people...

Russians are smart enough. If USA and its allies NATO were able to divide the country into different parts then the same tactics can be applied by Russians for USA in the long run. Russians were always equivalent to Americans and they will be no matter even if they stay silent. USA showed there military power in Afghanistan and Iraq, Russians did it in Georgia thus shaking the entire world. Its not just economy that drives the world but even military power which Russians have in plenty and may be superior when compared to Americans. What Russians lack is just support from international community thats it otherwise dare Americans could have entered Iraq. This is only biggest disadvantage for Russians and Advantage for Americans.

Sorry... Are you talkin about Stalin, born as Iosif Vissarionovich Dzhugashvili?

Was Stalin georgian or osetian or russian?

Putin is smart, you yanks are all hypocrats – and are are brring your nose into others pppls matter. For the sake of your country – elect Obama, not Mccain –
What you US folks needs to understand – the more pressure you put on Russia – the more resistance and uncooperation u will get. The world is tired of dancing after your tone of voice – and for sure Russia.

You americans're very funny cause of your stereotypic mind. Russians dislike Stalin and adore Putin, he is national hero and he really does his work well.

CNN: You have done an outstanding job!

Putin is giving everyone a food for thougth. Saakashvili's behaviour lends credence to his allegation.

to lali liparteliani:
Why do you think, Putin is DEVIL ?

Putin is far ahead by personal abilities as a leader comparing with western officials such as Bush, Blair and etc. It is difficult to admit it for the West. If you want to understand Russia – the "key" to knowledge is history of Russian State and Caucasus.

You do not know anything about our country!!! Sit at itself and the TV look and still do what that conclusions!!! Ridiculously))

Putin this our elder brother!
Russia forward!!!

Good article I enjoyed reading it

One thing is clear, and that is Vladmir Putin enjoys running Russia as if it were his private property. This is despotism and history tells us, the time when Putin's power will shrink, chaos will ensue, unfortunately.

Down with PUTIN and Russia, Burn Baby Burn

The old imperial ideas are still alive in Russia, you cant be popular unless you conquer someone, besides we need a faithful friend in the Caucasus among muslim & hostile republics. Europe & USA cant do real harm to Russia cos they need its oil & gaz badly. Cheap American chicken legs will suffer as always.

McCain will be not far away from Putin... same second Stalin

Yeah, those violent Russians...why can't they just invade a country without NATO's questioning and ship fleet strolling on by? Oh yeah, United Kingdom, United States, United Nations...coincidences are revealing some pattern, the EURO, not in the United Kingdom, United States, invades Iraq and never leaves or finds WMD's, now backed with United Nations when Russia makes a move? Hmm, seems like the real BAD Guys are the one's who feel only they can invade other countries and must stop other countries from invading because if anyone is going to rule the world, it's justifiably going to be the UN because they invade with positive goals, Russia, don't start the Red Scare again, oh yeah...it's the new age...the TERRORIST SCARE, remember the Witch Trials?

Matthew, my personal thanks for the interview with Putin, it helps spreads the truth about the conflict. I was so tired of listening to non-stop Saakashvili lies on CNN. Once again thanks. Please continue this way, Russia is not an enemy, Russia wants to coexist and prosper, it doesn't need any wars. Russia was the one who got attacked in this conflict, after 9/11 no one called US actions disproportional, not to mention Iraq, so why people call russian's so? Russia entered Georgia after its peacekeepers and other citizens were killed, every country in this world is alowed to defend its citizens lifes when they are in danger and it is exactly what Russia did.

Can you find the video interview of Mr. Putin on CNN?Only 1 min.:))

Putin speaks the truth about Georgia. And Bush, Mccain and Merkel – tell lies. Impudently tell lies. Saakashwili – in general the bastard and the murderer.

Where can I read the full text of Putin's interview?

You are eating fat Big Macs and fat CNN rubbish. That is why you are fat on all sides. Putin said to Matthew that in China he (Putin) had a quick talk to G.Bush and had summoned him to contact Saakashvilli to stop the violation, because Georgia did not responded to Russia requests.
Obviously your media is not free and you will never get independent information.
Also you are thinking that Putin is a KGB spy. However he had never worked for any of KGB spy departments, but he was working for dep#5 which never hided their officers.
Now, lets think a bit. During Rus-Georgia conflict, Georgia had lost 150 people INCLUDE military units. So they had lost like 5 or 6 civilians. During the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan and Serbia how many people dyed? HOW MANY?
Saakashvilli had killed 1600 civilians, just destroyed them. Children, woman, old man!? Saakashvili murders were armed with m16 and different American weapon , Your taxes were used to kill 16 000 South Osetians.
Stay fat and chillin'
cheers

Putin uses CNN : well done Putin, that's all i can tell about this interview.
About the american soldiers taking part in the conflit, a french newspaper, le Canard Enchainé, gave the same information (quoted from a french Army Intelligence high rank Officer) , so Mr CNN Journalist, verify your informations, there were americans guiding the georgian GRAD rocket launchers :)
This news paper is a very serious one amid some cartoons etc. For instance, it was the one which revealed the scandal about african diamonds given to a former french president, which drew to his defeat in the next elections.

Putin just cares about our national unity and independence in this severe world. We don't need any resources and territory – we have it wholly. He and President Medvedev have about 70% support of citizens of our country. As I know that rating is a transcendental top for Mr. Bush or Mr. Yushenko (Ukraine) or Mrs. Saakashvili (Georgia).

Putin rules. ))
We love him

If CNN will present at least a part of Russian point of view, that will be good for Russia, definitely. Because we are just right. But I don't beleive in that. I read CNN those days as well, and I learned, that CNN is just the instrument of US military propaganda.

Hey guys! Do you know that Stalin is a national hero in Geogia? His monuments are standing in their major cities.

Russia the friendly country. Find in it of the partner. Make itself more strongly. Familiarise with history. Completely I support the power in Russia.

How very hypocritical of Russia to recognize South Ossetia and Abkhazia. They weren't too keen to have anyone recognize the break-away "state" of Chechnya, as I recall...

to Dmitry Kovalchuk
You must see "Soviet Story", this movie is banned in Russia as I know. You will see what Stalin and Hitler dad in common. Now what Putin has in common with Hitler.
You are talking about defending Russian citizens but forgot to mention that Russia handed passports to them yesterday and now says that they defend their citizens-this is lesson from Hitler, don't you think so.
This conflict and one in Abkhazia was created by Russian artificially. In Abkhazia at least 75% were ethnic Georgians and Russia forced them out. Could you answer me why. Russia is hostile to almost all its neighbor countries. Just why?

Putin is a great leader, and hopefully will be heard , in the future, with more respect. Especially by U. S.

While Russia certainly – and at least quite openly so – is no democracy, European people are much less enthusiastic about Georgia than the US.
It is known that Saakashwili also cracked down hard on the Freedom of Press and Freedom of Speech and yet he presents himself as the saviour of democracy. Many Europeans think that Georgia started this and do not thank Saakashwili for drawing Europe into this confrontation..My heart goes out to all the people no matter which side they are on who lost their homes, health or even lives in this stupid conflict. Diplomacy always first !
Also applying double standards doesn´t pay. If we – that is, the West – were so keen on Kosovo´s independence the South Ossetians and Abchasians should also be able to make their own choice.It´s oil and its strategic geographical situation that makes Georgia so interesting and not its fantastic democracy, lets be honest.

This CNN report talks of Russia not giving acces to CNN to the Russian side, on Russian territory, during the conflict. But isn't the USA already used to go allong with embedded journalism, in the Mid East conflicts, and the USA amry not allowing journalists walk free in the field, durnig a battle?
Then, the Russan point of view could be seen on Russian TV, also by CNN people. Could those reports not be used? It is not uncommon, is it, to buy and show the work made by collegues, or are reports shown on CNN always made by CNN jourmalists?
This afternoon, saturday August 30, we'll presented a CNN documentary about John McCain "his life Revealed". I'm going to watch it, and see if it shows anything negative about the man, like the opinions of formar fellow soldiers, him not being a war hero at all.
Of course, Putin is a KGB man, and he's not to be trusted, but I think he can speak the truth about some things.
Thanks for posting this!

Ezek 38.

This is a much, much better article than what CNN has been writing for the past 2 weeks. Thank you, Matthew. Also, people of Georgia, dumb and unfounded comments like "Putin admires Stalin" (Stalin was ethnically Georgian, by the way) will not get the American public's favor for your president's "side" of the story.

Yes you're right, every country is alowed to defend its citizens. But when country is giving pasports to the people who are other countrys citizens and when this country tells them: take the pasport or leave this place – it's not right!

putin and the states are all in on it together to start their plan.
ha ha ha

I read in the history book how one unknown Gavrilo Princip of union of death's attack on Archduke Franz Ferdinand sparked the first world war and by connection the second.world war. Watching Saakashvili's propaganda on the television after his careless misadventure in to south Ossetia only shows how small minds in seats of power are playing Russian roulette with the fate of mankind. Saakashvili from his rhetoric clearly expects the west to get involved militarily in south Ossetia because the condemnation of Russia by the west does not seems to satisfy him. One may want to feel secure in the believe that the west can not be so stupid as to risky military confrontation with Russia over a small entity as south Ossetia, but given an anti – intellectual president called George Bush with his doctrine of preemptive strike and axis of evil outlook there is every reason to be concerned.

I suppose contemporary Russia is a great country for weak people who need support and guidance from the powerful, assertive state; who need to be a part of a strong group. Putin is a great leader for such people. Individualists, creative professionals and such are miserable, most likely. You can't have a modern, progressive, happy nation without the later people.

Everybody knows who is Putin. Maybe it was better for the author to focus on the Georgian – U.S. aggressive policy  which Putin was talking about?
In the 21th century USA is the synonym of war and lie – that was the main idea.

When president Yeltsin ruled Russia, every one in the west was happy, and happy to make the president Yeltsin appear on television like one alcoholic, or a funny guy. But what was even more funny about him, was that he was just giving away all treasures Russia had build, for couple of dollars, sell Russian's treasures to international companies and as well national companies for nothing.
That was very accommodating to westerners.

Than came Putin, and he put an end to all this, he start to put back the country in the right direction, and he made the country richer.
Since Putin came to power, the middle class, the class who can afford to travel, to buy goods, increased and still increase at a very good rate. (10 years ago, I never saw russians in Bali, and now there are many who come there to enjoy surfing, holidays, etc..and not only very rich people but as well students, or normal people).

So he did a very very good work.

And about Georgia, I think is sad, but ... If westerners say yes to Kosovo, and decide to break it away from a sovereign country like Serbia, why shouldn't South Ossetia and Abkhazia have the same privilege? What's the difference there?

And why countries that are thousands kilometers away from each other with no common interest decide for each other?

I've been to the Kremlin, and it's a pretty intimidating place at the best of times. I commend Matthew Chance for sitting across from these men, and doing his job. Russians historically don't have much patience for dissent, and Medvedev/Putin have proven to be extremely powerful figures in post-Yeltsin Russia. Both the men in charge of Russia have a lot of political clout, as well as immense financial backing, and have proven that they're not opposed to using it. I'm curious to know how Matthew felt in the situation, was he somewhat nervous, intimidated, excited, or was he too busy to worry about it?

Budapest 1956
Prague 1968

etc. etc. etc.

this is russia for Europe!

It seems that many have forgonten the very beginning of this nasty war. Georgian attack was the answer to a week long separatist bombing of Georgian villages. Moreover, why Mr. Putin does not say why he armed Ossetian separatists?
And it is really ridicous, that Putin complains about western media, as Russions do not grant the access to do their job. And the reason is simple – to hide the truth. For example, that there was no genocide against Ossetians and that casualties in Tshinvali were more than ten times beyon the official 2000.

Putin to Hague!!!

I am very concerned about the Texan man's passport and the connection to Georgia and McCain. Can this be verified?

This report is big a pile of nonsense. People are dying in Iraq. The ex-chairman of the Federal Bank Alan Greenspan, a source from the very core of the american civilian establishment, said the Iraq war is all about oil. The region of the Caucusus fits the same formula very well. Now here we have a report on how surprised the cnn guy was when he was well treated by the Kremlin bla bla bla. It suspect this "report" was written by an intelligence agency employee, whose task is to disinform, create confusion, prejudice. Part of an intelligence agency project to create a negative and prototype image of the us opponents. A jet fighter costs 100 million dollars, disinformation is much cheaper but can be very effective. This stinks of cia stuff.

Russian brutality does not have any limits and they bomb innocent civilian people, they are murders, Russians commit genocide against my people and they were such unscrupulous that dared to attack our president ( Saakashvili is the strogest leader that Georgia ever had before and that is why Russia hates him but Saakashvili is elected by Georgians and why Russia puts its nose in our affairs) and not only our president but as well foreign representatives but my people will never yield and never kiss their red dirty bloody boots my people fought for other nations freedom and how do you think? Georgians will give their freedom we are ancient people and do not let savage government to take away our freedom and God blessed land.
we do appreciate the world’s support that the whole world woke up and showed the Russia that they are not all-might.
The empires that tried to conquest the whole world razed to the ground and as I see this is Russia’s future and his is the beginning of Russians' empires ending

Matthew, many thanks for this interesting comment. I was personally surprised to learn from it that Russia "...is nation where Western journalists are barely given the time of day by the Kremlin". Many observers here in Moscow feel on the contrary. Take, for example, this fact: the first big, "sit down" interview by new Russian president Medvedev upon his election was given not to a Russian media outlet but to Financial Times. Also Putin when he was president regularly gave big, many-hours live press conferences, attended by both local and foreign media, where he was asked any sorts of questions ranging from his personal life to world politics (you probably can hardly find any other current leader doing that sort of things). Yes, the Kremlin has not yet mastered "Western-style PR" and is somewhat clumsy in handling media relations; but you cannot blame it for not willing to get its message across.

It `s embarrassing to watch CNN’s reports about Georgian Conflict...
Sounds like old fashion Soviet Propaganda...
How is the Winner?
John McCain!!!!! /big fan of Georgian president/

there are no more lies anywhere then in Russian media and this is well known fact. How do you think why they don't allow media to enter this territory?? because they have something they want to hide, or another option they are stupid if what they say is right and they are cutting the way to prove it. Fortunately in the world people are not as narrow minded as Russians

Dmitry
you are saying russia is alowed to defend its citizens.
but you think that Georgia isnt alowed defend its citizens, who had been living in the region. Russian "peace keepers" and Osetian bandits have been killing them for last 15 years.
This is our Motherhood this is our land far away from our country.
Putin lies when sais that Stalin gave these regions to Georgia. These regions alwais was part of Georgia. Stalin gave them authonomy, because he wanted encaurage conflicts inside Georgia.

That's the point – Russia is too closed, which does not mean it's bad, is it? Distrustful maybe. I do not believe Russia has too much imperialistic ways, it is just does not like NATO meddling in its sphere of interests. After all, Caribbean crisis is a good example of US doing virtually the same. Why teasing geese, America? That's shortsightedness, if nothing else. Saakashvili's provocateur – is it not clear? Especially his activity now to join NATO no matter what, using this war he has simply tripled his speed in joining what he wants most. Do not be stupid, you do not want to fight Russia, do you? Let's do it on newspapers' pages, not with tanks.

As an American living here in Russia it's wonderful to see the Russian government grant CNN, and other media outlets, direct access to Russia's leaders.

I think that most thoughtful and open-minded people will agree that when one actually reads the transcript of what both Putin and Medvedev say s/he is pleasantly surprised by the depth of knowledge and sincerity of conviction both men hold.

The next step for the Kremlin is to hire a group of young Western educated "press secretaries" will would be briefed daily by Kremlin officials on the government's positions and then these press secretaries would be available to the world press.

What I and others who support Putin and Medvedev believe, is still suffering from a post Cold War "hang-over" where stereotypes play much too large of a role in shaping public perceptions.

The single most important message which needs to be repeated over and over is that Russia is NOT expansionist. Russia has not (preemptively or otherwise) started a war, invaded another country, or overthrown another government since the Cold War ended.

Russia is not expansionist. Russia is tough but fair. Russia has legitimate interests in the world of foreign affairs and it is normal that it should pursue those interests for the benefit of its citizens.

Russia has no interest to acquiring new land from other countries. No, Russia is rightly focused on improving the internal conditions of its own country. That includes raising living standards, leveraging the countries natural resources to diversify its economy (nano technology being a recent example), improving the general business environment by reducing the "artificial friction" which currently exists as a result of switching from one type of system to a newer one, and improving the infrastructure of the economy which is tired and "fully depreciated."

What I believe Matthew Chance strives to do as a serious journalist is to take what Mr. Putin says "at face value." Too often people in the West assume that Russia has constantly got an ulterior motive. However, that just isn't the case. Perhaps our own governments in the West have disappointed us for so long that we just assume ALL governments are cynical.

Russia is a huge country which continues to undergo massive social changes. Try to be a little patient with Russia. the progress over the past 17 years has been nothing short of amazing. However, as we like to say in America, Russia is still only in the bottom of the 3rd inning.... the best is yet to come.

I'm glad CNN will be able to be there to cover the future of Russia.

Yeah, those violent Russians…why can’t they just invade a country without NATO’s questioning and ship fleet strolling on by? Oh yeah, United Kingdom, United States, United Nations…coincidences are revealing some pattern, the EURO, not in the United Kingdom, United States, invades Iraq and never leaves or finds WMD’s, now backed with United Nations when Russia makes a move? Hmm, seems like the real BAD Guys are the one’s who feel only they can invade other countries and must stop other countries from invading because if anyone is going to rule the world, it’s justifiably going to be the UN because they invade with positive goals, Russia, don’t start the Red Scare again, oh yeah…it’s the new age…the TERRORIST SCARE, remember the Witch Trials?

Yes about time Russian is making someting happen, for a long time America just do what they want to do, and when someone stand up against them , they dont like it so my comgratulation to Russian Goverment for doing balance of power to the world go for it there is lots of people who agree with you, so go for it.

Dear Dmitry Kovalchuk,

I would agree with you if Russia did what you said but Russia went too far as a force show on such a small country.

No one accept the use of such a big force by air, sea, and land.

I think Russia did much more than Georgia to get Chechen separatists in control so please save us from your USSR point of view.

it's rediculous to bellieve that russia have been provocated by georgian side to intervate in this conflict. protection of "russia's citizens' right" is just "casus beli" to justify his military agression against georgia. I hope that russian people doesn't share putin's detestation toward georgia. if he wants to go back in USSR, let him go, but without georgia!!!!!!

It is my understanding that you, western media guys normally don't like to see other leaders who don't govern their countries according to western wishes. So they try to corner them and lecture them. Putin is a strong leader we can be proud of. He has given his nation the due place in the world.

I don't think Russia is worrying about you. Any way try to do something impartically.

Matthew Chance is right that Russia was not prepared for the public relations side of things. Across the board, from CNN, France 24, BBC World, EuroNews, etc. it was all Georgia's side for almost a week.

Interesting background. Thanks. By the way – as people talk about the "power" of Russia, it should be remembered that its GDP is only about 10% of either the EU or the US and its population is falling like a rock in a demographic collapse. Oil money apparently doesn't spur population growth.

Kosovo is a boomerang to America.

I am curious to know why no one has asked (that I know of), Mr Putin why it was okay for Russia to invade Chechnya but not for Georgia to try to get S Ossetia back?

Don't be afraid of smart – be afraid of stupid.
Saakashvili and Bush are much more dangerous, and they proved it many times.

First of all, I would like to express my personality sympathy and special gratitude to Mathew, who took a part in our war as a professional journalist, and informed the world the reality of conflict. As for interview it showed clearly what Russia is,
We did not invade Russians’ Country it was Russia who destroyed Georgia: Ossetia, Gori, Igoeti, Poti . Do these territories belong to Russia ? I wonder how Russia suffice conscience to say that they are peacekeeper, when they destroyed everything in the fire , but I am glad that the whole world is aware of everything – thanks Media.
Shame on you Russia!!! Look after your territories and people they die from starvation. Leave Georgia alone !
Georgia was our , Georgia is our, Georgia will be our !
In September 1, Georgians will prove their UNITY once more with living chain around Georgia and Arm in arm will stand for Georgia and For the strongest and intelligent President.

Oh my god !!! I just cant beleived how Russian peoples can be brain washed, by they own (one person) goverment !! The only problem with them they beleive is no life outside they ruin country !!
Nothing can justified invaiding a another country whenever they feel like it !!

Dmitry Kovalchuk – You got it all wrong my friend! Only US citizens are the most important in this world. Saddam was evil because he didn't care about Americans. Americans and its partners in crime..UK, Canada, Australia always save the world. Only these 4 countries have right to kill people!

CNN was spreading Georgian propaganda all the time during the war. Why did FOX news cut short the interview of the American girl who fled from South Ossetia? Why CNN did not cover this story? Does anybody have answer? Why are questions not asked to Saakashvili how thousands of South Ossetians were killed?

CNN: You have once again given a platform to a ruthless dictator to promote his own propaganda campaign. Somuch for actual reporting!

-- I want to believe to a former KGB officer and now a Russian leader that they love Georgians and they moaned about the deaths of Georgian solders as well.
-- .... BUT, how I can believe Mr. Putin if after his interview to CNN I have so many questions:
-- Why Mr. Putin misleads CNN viewers about the history of Ossetia? Namely, he says that there was no North and South Osetia back in 1740s, there was just one Osetia under the Russian empire. Agree, that's true, but what Mr. Putin DID NOT SAY is that that entity – Ossetia – had never included historical part of Georgian territory (populated vastly by Georgians at that time) which is now disputed and is called "South Osetia". That GEORGIAN historical part (called "Samachablo") was renamed to "South Osetia" in 1921 because Soviet leadership had an evil plan of creating potential hotspots with ethnic tensions – the aim was to make disintegration of Soviet republics difficult. What we are witnessing now is the product of that plan.
-- I have many other questions about Mr.Putin's interview but it will take a few pages and I will not bother readers about it. If anyone wants to believe in Russian politicians’ noble intentions – please do so .....
-- I lived under Soviet system, I live now under want-to-be free “sovereign” state Georgia. I also lived in the US, and I can tell the difference between living in the US, in western democracies and living under the Soviet system.
-- Why we should be punished for our aspirations to be integrated with western world? Why won't Russia let us go? Why are they blackmailing us with the separatist regions, created by Soviets, and now supported by Russians – Russians, whose president expressed his deep regret about the collapse of the Soviet Union!
-- God help both of our nations. Ordinary Russians are misled by their politicians.

Thanks CNN!

First of all, the Putin regime's fundamentals are very close to that of Italian FASCISM and German National Socialism: aggressive nationalism and chauvinism, militaristic ambitions, state corporatism, dominance of one party and one ideology, etc.

Secondly, the West must understand that it is going to have to deal with Putin's regime for YEARS IF NOT DECADES to come (if not confronted). Putin has concentrated all political power in his hands. He is very popular among the Russians, and he's still very young (55).

Conclusion: What did it take the world to stop Hitler and Mussolini?
Don't think Putin is different only because he wears Brioni...

Why Saak has wide access to CNN channel ?
Why CNN short up when 78 Georgia began operation "Clear Field"?

Why Russia is not willing to reveal his side of conflict? The answer is quite simple: Every wrongdoer tries to hide his tracks.

This case was in Chechnya, it was in Abkhazia and Ossetia but a bit earlier in the beginning of 90s.

The current situation is similar to Chechnian war. During the Chechnian war the Russian authorities shut all independent media down in Russia and prevented the foreign media to cover the conflict. But soon after the conflict when Russia swept the tracks of his wrongdoings he started to speak before media run by him. This will be the next in this conflict as well.

Wow, great to see journalists at CNN salivating over sudden 'access' to Russian leaders. I am sick of the so called 'professional' journalists simply being used by the Russian propoganda machine as a mouthpiece. It doesn't matter that what Putin says is utter garbage and spin the fact that CNN allows itself to be used as the megaphone unfortunately gives credibility to his juvenile statements.

And I am very tired of listening non–stop Putin lies on TV.
Putin had been planning this invasion for years – even before he started giving out russian passports in Georgia!.

Russia never wanted to help people. Why do people not remember chechnia. What did this nice russian goverment do with this nation????

Hello????? wake up people.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chance, for giving the world a good CHANCE through your interview to see Putin’s real face and the “fantastic” flow of his logic. As I have heard, George W. Bush had said about Putin that he could see “soul” in Putin’s eyes. It is so unfortunate that US President was so much misled… And yes, I (as well as everyone else, I think) do completely “agree” with Mr. Putin that the banning of those US companies has really nothing to do with Georgia crisis. They had a similar ban about Georgian products last year, and that too, of course, had nothing to do with politics (sarcastically said, of course). I DO hope, the world will see and realize that Russia is never going to change, because imperialistic feelings are cultural matter to their politicians and are present throughout Russian history. There are even linguistic proves to that. Names like Vladimir [English translation-"rule the world", does it sound any familiar? Yes, Mr. Putin's first name], Vladivostok ["rule the East"], Vladislav [rule the Slaves"], and of causre, Vladikavkaz ["rule the Caucasus"] and so on. Double standards is also a normal thing to Russian politicians and other leaders. When it was about separatism in Chechnya, Putin wiped the whole region out of the earth, and no one knows how many thousands of people were killed. That was “constitutional”, as he claimed. But… when it comes to other countries, he gladly supports separatists in Georgia. When President Reagan called Soviet Union the “Evil Empire”, I am sure he was referring mostly to Russia's politicians – the heart and soul of the Soviet Union. The mentality of that state still remains the same. One would think the 21st century would change that evil and heal the world from this desease. But what applies to most of nations and civilized world, does not apply to Russia's leadership. The world has known many empires that eventually collapsed, and, hopefully, sooner or later "Russian empire" will share their fate. Until then, however, it will try to sour the lives of everyone around. That should be stopped. Russia should be stopped. STOP RUSSIA! Under this slogan Georgians will form a live chain on September 1, and we plea the world to join us in our fight for freedom and against Russian occupation!

The thing is, Putin is admired and respected by his compatriots, and not only, for what he's achieved for his country these few years, since his election.

On the contrary, you dont' need to look at the popularity ratings of western leaders to understand why they are disliked and almost hated by their own people: they preach and practice different things.

Hope Obama really means what he's talking about.

The guy looked wery wierd. As if he's cracked down under the pressure. Being a man of mediocre itellectual abilites he apparently cannot cope with the heavy burden of running neo-imperialist Russia. His not Stalin at all. Not even close to his hero.

And it seems that he believes his own propaganda machine. I mean remarks about the Ossetian girl and Fox News. He mentions the coughing of the Fox's anchor, which is acutally present only in the Russian voiced-over version of the broadcast in question aired by Vesti-24, but not in the original.

The interview leaves very impression: it's scary to see who's really running Russia.

But let me still congratulate you for a very good job.

Events in Georgia have made it clear that the romance between the U.S and Russia since the end of the cold war have been one of convenience. The U.S intensions about it's missile defense shield in Poland not convencing. Let's wait for China's reaction.

It's really important to listen to Russia nowadays, they are one of the pillars of our world. Good job, Matthew.

Russia has the right like any country to fight for its national interest. CNN is definitely not an honest newspaper any more. The slandering remark against the Chinese is a case in point. Stop your hypocrisy, CNN!

They (Russians) will live to regret it," Japanese Asahi Shimbun newspaper quoted Eduard Shevardnadze on Thursday as saying. Shevardnadze criticized Moscow's Tuesday move to recognize Georgian areas of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, warning Russia that it would "encourage separatist movements within ethnically diverse Russia." "This will lead to discussions to recognize the independence of Chechnya and Dagestan," he added, referring to two regions that have seeking independence from Russia.

Even quiet Sweeden has come on board. Sweden's normally soft-spoken Foreign Minister Carl Bildt retorted that Russia's resort to that argument echoed that of Hitler in annexing pre-World War Two Czechoslovakia.

Russia's invasion of Georgia was a sign of weakness rather than strength. My guess is it will mark the beginning of the end for Putinism, just as the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968 sounded the death knell of communism. Something is going seriously wrong in Putinland.

Even your previous mouthpiece Mr. Shevardnadze thinks you are bunch of mumbling stumbling fools.

According to Mr Shevardnadze, he feels the recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia by the Russian President Dmitry Medvedev badly thought out. After all Russia has got its own breakaway republics.

"If you recognise Abkhazia and South Ossetia, then you cannot blame a republic like Chechnya for wanting the same. Or Dagestan. Or Tatarstan. They also can be recognized if Abkhazia can be."

"Georgia played the media game, Russia did not."

...So, this is an excuse for reporters to not report the truth about how this started? Give me a break.

It all indicates the tendency toward a cold war again, but this time it will be more dangerous with countries like Iran, Pakistan and India becoming nuclear powers.

We were all alive when Bush and Blair lied to the world about Iraqis' weapon of mass destruction, yet we supported them because Saddam was increasingly becoming a threat to his own people and the world at large. Therefore, if Georgian military is being used to terrorise civilians and Russians rose to keep peace, I think the Russians should be commended, be applauded and be massively supported. The west should show some morals diplomatically.

Many years ago, when Putin was elected as President of Russia, there was debate in CNN and also in rest of the world media, who actually is Putin, a former KGB, judo expert,who is he , who does he represent ? Now the invasion of Georgia and arm twisting of former republics of Soviet Union , TNK-BP dispute, it is becoming absolutely clear that he represents a group of oligarchs of Russia who became rich overnight ,amassed immense wealth by their illegal acquired oil welaths, country's vast mineral wealth and war machines through their political and former KGB contacts . The fact which emerges from Gerogia invasion, Putin and Medvedev both only represent the interests of oil mafia who donot want to loose their control of CIS oil . Georgia, a country of 4 million, how can it matter to Russia ?

Have Russian leaders talk to the world more often. This way the world will clearly and easily see what absured Russian leadership say!!! Hence can be the judgement on their actions too.

Matthew, thanks for this interview. I thought that independent American media already died after beginning of the war that Mr. Saacashvilli had launched. Great work, CNN!

Although If there were more independent and unbiased media in the US antirussian propaganda would not work.

RUSSIA DOESN'T WANT A WAR and NEVER DIDN'T in his history.

Matthew,why didn`t you post the interview,you were given by Putin,completely and fully? You wrote that you were given "A full-length, sitdown interview."Where is this one? At the beginning(at first half of the article) I can only read about what had been before you interviewed Putin.Then I can see only how you`re paraphrasing what he said.I think it would be better if you had posted the interview fully,without an indirect discourse.Only questions of CNN and Putin`s answers.it would be true to let the readership draw a conclusion by oneself,without assistance.And also it`s interesting why you didn`t write about what happend in South Ossetia on the 8th,9th of August. As I know Putin said everything to you about it.Or do you think it`s so unimportant?I don`t think so...It seems to me that you wrote here not everything and makes me think about it carefully.
Thanks.

Finally! CNN – good job. I'm ready to change my mind about your channel. Thank you!

Thank you Matthew for this interview, finally "clever " Putin dicided to share "his" version of what happend in Georgia. We should thank him and not CNN, because it is obviouse that Russia after all the lies in proper TV and creating anger in proper people, woke up and understood that they need America and Europe, although thay are claiming that not:)
I wanted to say that the any country which respects itself, does the things for do them and not because America or France did the same thing in past, so justifications like "America did it in iraq or example of Kosovo" seems a childish rubbish.
I would like to know if citizens of Georgia living in Russia were declearing themselvs independent on territory of Russia and do not allowed russian people entering in that territory-what would be the reaction of Russia?
Hm...incoming from the "peace inforcement" actions you can only guess the disaster that would happend in that way...and remeber Chechenia where Russia with excuse of "establishing constitutional order" has killed thousand of peacfull abitants cinema of Nord ost, where for killing terrorists have died thousands of civilians and Beslan where also for killing terorists died 300 babies!
Russian militaries have bombed civilians and their houses, robbed everything that could find and still staying in Georgia with unknown object even if they had to return to their positions of 6 August.
Georgia has replied to continous provocations of separatists( exploding and shooting georgian civilians in georgian villages) on its own territory, like Russia did in Chechenia( note that there is no comparison between georgians and russians in that actions)-so what's the problem?
The truth is that Russia does not like west oriented neighbour and puts all the excuses to intervent, occupy and destroy the exisitng situation in Georgia-as you remeber russian ambassador in UN has declared clearly that the object is to change current georgian government-so leave alone stupid arguments like "protecting russian citizens","avoiding genocide of ossetian people" and other crap like this.

You know... western propaganda makes Russia small and looks weak. They have 1600 intercontinental nuclear warhead missile. Please don't start the WW3.

bla-bla-bla...
Russia does all correctly.
Saakashvili is killer.
"Is not everything clear???"

still thinking so geopolitical about this. really think either America or Russia can re embark on these antique power trips and endure consequences. come on with the "he's a strong leader" stuff, so 80s. analyse the situation from a global perspective and you'll see that there will only be negatives for russia an the us in the mid and long-term. You think Russia´s newly found “greatness” is something which has nothing to do with the rest of the world?

Thank you Mathew. At least the world will have an idea what was really happened in the south of Russia.
Saakashvilli is a DEVIL appointed by Bush government. I am also tired to listen his lies and crazy comments. He attacked Osetia and planned to do the same with Ankhazia. These 2 areas have never been a part of Geargia historically and Osetin and Abkhazian people have never like to be under Georgia. Please study history about Russia and Kaucasus.
How Saakashwili can call these areas as part of Georgia if he started to bomb and kill civilians at night? Do any country will start killing its people and then call them as their own citizens? Please answer!
Russia did a good job protecting its own citizens. I am proud about my President and Putin. They were smart and brave enough to anounce the independence of Osetia amd Abkhazia against the all world's opinions. THere were no any other way to save people.
I hope and I will pray that clever people in the world will think about this situation and understand that Russia has never been agressive and Russia has never attacked.
Nobody wants war. Russia and its people do not want any war too. But if somebody will come to our place and start to kill our people, we are strong enough to give a proper answer.
But Sakashvilli seems does not want peace .

from what I understand, Russia wants to take position in global politicis, what US is having now. They want to dictate world rules. US was pushin for independance of Kosovo, Russia wanted to show it got some strength in Caucasus and can do the same. That's why putin accused US that its citizens were in the combat zone (which sounds kinda stupid)

Russian ppl itself believe that americans are enemies and russia should start and win another cold war, in order to revenge for the previous one.

There is nothing US and West can do to make Russia comply with their demands as long as oil and gas prices remain high and Western countries depend on Russian energy supplies. But to save their collective democratic face Western leaders have to verbally reprimand Russia in front of various social listener-groups. Politics. Barking dogs seldom bite

Putinesque ideology of 'I'm the strongest', will get Mother Russia in it's deepest trouble where it'll fall behind in every sense, because something much bigger is happening than you actually hear!

I wish the News Media would use the Constitution of freedom of Press. Report the story complete. Both sides of it and let the American People decide who is right or wrong. The US Government controls the Media and only let the American People hear, what they want them to hear. Why We do not hear from the Citizens in South Ossetia. Not the Georgian President says.

CNN, Thank you!!!
Finally I can see some good news from Western media company. It was terrible when Georgians attacked Tskhinvali and there was nothing on the news. Russia sent it's forces to save us only after 12 hours!!! 12 hours Russia was asking World community to stop it! Only after 1496 (was counted lately) civilians in Tskhinvali were killed by Georgians agressy Russia sent it's armi to save rest of people.
For statistics: 92% of whole population of South Ossetia are citizens of Russian Federation.
God bless CNN for started, adequate, lighting of the happenings!

CNN simply doesn't know what is happening in international hot spots. Instead of Russia & Georgia or even the US letting you know about the conflict, CNN should have taken impartial standing and investigation into this issue.

Good article, but, could have been a little less coy. To say that "the Kremlin has been increasingly shifty about John McCain" is an understatement. Has it occurred to anybody that maybe Putin and his repressive Russian regime would like to 'lend a hand' to Obama's candidacy? Are we supposed to believe that a little TV coverage Putin saw while at the Olympics caused an about-face in Russia's disdain for U.S. TV coverage? Think about it.

hey guys and girls lookout a new world of russia has begun raising from ashes to the clouds and nice work cnn

For anyone who actually pays attention, Putin despises Stalin and anything Communist. So make a real arguement. If you read the transcript he infact accuses Bush, the West, and Saakasvali of Stalinism because of their blatant approval of Georgia's oppression of minority populations and the imperialistic and forced incorporation of Abkhazia and South Ossetia which is only "South" because Stalin made it so to reward HIS COUNTRY of Georgia. Stalin was 100% Georgian and sought every chance to better them over the Russians. Saakasvali surely has a bust of Stalin somewhere in his office with his continued desire for incorporation Uncle Joe gave his people.

lets face the facts. 1993 ossetians killed 20000 georgians and created 300000 refugees of georgian descent to leave osettia, look it up in wiki. or any press channels. there is an oil pipeline 1 million barrels a day, putin wants it. can you blame him? i want it too! but he has the tanks and the french and germans are wimps as usual. of course its illegal and immoral. but, so its in his area, he can take it, like he cant stop the us in mexico. nato at his border he doesnt want. the best defense is a good offense. strike. oil is high foreign currency reserves finance it. why not? next belorussia and moldavia, ukraine ports if possible. russian propaganda and lets face it they can play chess well, right?. he planned this invasion for years, backed by oligarch oil behind the scenes motivators. why he doesnt alllow the other regions which want to break away from russia to do so? money. oil. he also does not want a violet or orange revolution. and who can blame him? with communist power with the old people in russia, it is a dangerous situation because russians dont care about voting. they want to party, drink and have a good time. morality and the soul has disappeared. only 5% go to church, 40% in usa. so it would create an unstable nuclear russia, bush knows this so we stand by and do nothing. it is the necessary evil at this time in geopolitics and putin knows it! lets face it, yeltsin was backed by the cia and two american pr agents, see film, spinning yeltsin. and yeltskin backed putin. so what does that mean? think about it

50% of Finish people has been scared during Russian military attack to Georgia and now after. Just before Georgian conflict Pravda accused That Finland is trying to poison "poor Russians" in Estonia by chearing "day after" food for free. Same time Russian military helicopter came to Finish side of border "accidently" for 10minutes.
This is "old Russian way" to proove Finish that now is better to be quiet during Russian activities and that happened. our politics must be very quiet now...for reason.

very good article, i see putin as the only kid in the yard that stands up to the bullies (the west). not to be baist but its the truth, Russia wants to coexist and prosper.... thanx again for the great article

"The White House insists Putin is talking rubbish."

Oh, that settles it then doesn't it? :-))

Btw, did they find those WMD stockpiles that threatened the world in Iraq yet?

where can i see this interview on cnn site, i saw it in russian tv and it last aboute 30 minuts? it was very interesting and understandable for who doesnt know the point of conflict.

I'm speaking for myself, but let me assure you that many Russians can hardly stand Putin. But they can't help it – this man and his friends violated young russian democracy and fully control the russian political system now. This permanently lying man of twiling consciousness talks rot on behalf of Russia. Sorry, but I haven't given him this right from my side – to pull my country to the isolation and troubles.

USSR and Russia are not the same as West portray them. Russia is a democratic country. People in the USSR lived too many years under the dictatorship of Stalin who was GEORGIAN, not russian. Saakhashvili is another Stalin.

For Russia is a good reason to say, I am still alive. This war in Georgia and South Ossetia is only a economic war. In this point Russia look that from USA in Iraq, why Russia don't do it, it is profitable for they. The fact is children and people died in this conflict.

Dimitry Kovalchuk, you seem to forgot something very important: Chechens are Russian citizens and they were mass murdered by Russians (because they also wanted to be free). Did you complain about this back then? In Iraq US overthrew the dictator-madman who was a direct threat to the US. Are you comparing Georgia to Iraq?
Russian invasion in Georgia was well planned several years before the event! Russia is the champion of military provocations and that’s what they achieved by using those poor Ossetians who still think they’ve won something. Talking about the winning, you have to wait to see final outcome of Russia’s Georgia deal. It ain’t over yet!

"But at least they are in the debate now — and that can’t be bad for Russia."

Absolutely!

Russia is an empire of evil. Russia should be isolated from the civilized World untill it gets civilized. Russia is still in the 19th century.

Mr. Chance looks very smart in his article and article is good demonstrating freedom of voice provided by "western media"
But why there is no comment on the Fox's interview that Putin also mentioned while talking to mr. Chance ? Switching off the air the native Osetian girl ( who is American now ) who dared to blame Saakashvili during her interview is also a part of the western media style and it shows .

Where is that interview? It wasn't shown on CNN, and it wasn't posted on the CNN site. Putin spoke for 30 minutes; all we get is two and a half minutes, a brief summary, and now a self-satisfied blog with the usual "KGB black belt with a cold stare" platitudes.

Yes, access is difficult in Russia, but that's no excuse for poor journalism. There were plenty of officials, eye witnesses, and independent reporters to interview when the war started, and now Putin himself sits down to tell his government's side of the story. "To get him now, at a time like this, when Russia is so prominent in the minds of Americans and the world, was incredible, fascinating." So why not let us watch?

Spread the truth?

CNN fell into the hands of masterminders of russian propaganda, pity!
Of course it is good to know the view from the other side! Oh yeah!

CNN should have insisted to be able to visit and travel freely in South Osetia (which is in russian hands now) and where no western journalists are allowed, before sitting down with Putin.

If Russia is right in this conflict, let western journalists in, unless Russia has things to hide.

Instead, CNN let Putin spread more accusations towards the west,
If US citizens were in Georgia as it is claimed, why only now he announced it? Last resort? because things are not going as planned?

it's just another part of the russian game. pity.

ps, I love Russian people, but not their leadership.

rusians suffer from a inferiority complex ...they look more and more like the old rusia or the natzy germay (nationalism wise)
putin wants to revamp some sort of urss , a state that was created on intimidation, playing minoritis agains each other and military agression, the world is a better place without it

I wonder if these two heads of the Russian eagle notice how much the West really influences their actions. It's just because the Western strategists think a few steps in advence, in contrast to Russian state managers.

Evidently the West has a longterm plan of disempowering Russia from its nuclear warheads, and implements it so ingeniously that Russia has only dumb moves left. And these dumb moves only empower the West.

And it's more than a plan – whole Western media space is so much more flexible than Russian censored media, that the outcome of their competition is clear in advance. For example, even if Putin will give an interview every day, there will be thousands of Western journalists who will urge their audiences to think about his words, and compare them with acts and facts.

Thanks to Western media, and incensorable Internet, the Russia will have to change faster than it thinks it will.

I do not like Moscow and Putin, but Saakashvili is much worse, it is obviously just a big lier. It is impossible to believe that USA leaders do not understand this. And when USA media shows the good guy Saakashvili 100% and another side as a bad one 100%, it creates a very bad image of USA – Russian TV and Internet just cite USA media to show that USA is an evil country, and the story that this tragedy is orchestrated by the conservative leaders for the election reason sounds very trustful.
USA feedback is very wrong and primitive, and it is very bad for the future.

Dimitry Kovalchuk, you seem to forgot something very important: Chechens are Russian citizens and they were mass murdered by Russians (because they also wanted to be free). Did you complain about this back then? In Iraq US overthrew the dictator-madman who was a direct threat to the US. Are you comparing Georgia to Iraq?
Russian invasion in Georgia was well planned several years before the event! Russia is the champion of military provocations and that’s what they achieved by using Ossetians who still think they’ve won something. Talking about the winning, you have to wait to see final outcome of Russia’s Georgia deal. It ain’t over yet!
PS. CNN, allow me to at least say this. Thank you.

Thank you, Matthew and CNN! Obviously many are not happy with our role, but to judge, everybody must consider the full story of adjustment of conflict since 1992 which was crossed out by actions of Georgian president. Sad.
Please know that Russia is not an enemy. Russian Empress Ekaterina II was the first in Europe to recognise the US Independence. Let Russia have several serene decades and we will be closer to each other.

Hello Decent Yankees,

Please, Stop GEORGE WAR BUSH!!!! He is unable to defeat poor crazy peasants from Kabul and Bagdad. Would he destroy the mighty Russians and their unbeatable former Red army? It is time to think Big, and stop dreaming that you´re Super Heroes who can bomb any people, any country, at any desireable time....
Support the Democrats, support intelligent solutions for old problems. Peace is still the answer.

Law enforcement in the world is impossible without Russia, and if I were a Russian I would think about this very carefully. Sometimes I wallow in nostalgia for the USSR, but I believe that Russia can be great too. Angola, Russia, friendship forever!

It is too bad the spirit of the Olympics can't be reflected in the rest of the world in co-operation and co-existance.

CNN Revealed the real Putin under his Mask.

Good job from Western World and CNN

Georgia initiated this campaign. It could not do it without US help
and approval. Why US need it ?

However, NO Matter Russian does like or dislike, the Fact is that every country has the right to keep it sovereignty and within its borders as a whole. Stalin Gave Russians enough of Georgia’s Land.

I think this is the Time for Russians to keep their Hands off from Ex Soviet Union Countries.

Remember Putin this is 21st Century not 20th.

Thank you Mathew for telling the truth about Russia! We dont want any cold war and Georgians and Russians lived in peace until Saakashvili came to power. I dont think that saakashvili is that popular in Georgia and Putin is really loved by Russians!

You should understand that Russia strong, but the peace and civilised state. Russia rescued time and again Georgia, Ossetia and Abkhazia from utter annihilation. 200 years ago Georgia swore on fidelity of Russia. Russia restored Georgia from ruins after attacks of Turkish army. Read history. Now in Georgia a puppet government, come to power a revolutionary way by means of money and support of the USA. By hands of Saakashvilli of the USA does that has no right to do independently. Russia never itself launched war, it only protected the citizens and she cannot be reproached for it. If in America there are people who do not want war – do not choose McCain. This person is old and deranged.

God bless Georgia and its people!
Putin, Medvedev, and the rest of the Kremlin Chekists are thugs and WAR CRIMINALS who also enjoy killing journalists!
Matthew should have asked him about Anna Politkovskaya and the rest of the martyrs like her who were killed because they spoke the truth.

Many russians ADMIRE Stalin, and are interested in seeing their country become strong once again. Being smart and aggressive, he will attempt to restore his country to the same level of importance it had before perestroika. He holds europe in his pocket (b/c of oil/gas) and WILL become more confrontational as time goes on. Russia has always been an enemy of the West, and only the USA can deal with him. I hope this is a wake-up call for american politicians and industrialists to get off oil and resurrect our technical talent so that people like Putin can be defeated the way they were in the 1980s – through a stronger economy and superior technology.

Excellent job, Matthew, thanks a lot!!!!

Thanks to Mathew for genuine fresh air from CNN at last.

B/r.

u stupid americans u wanted to distroy this world .i am foreigner(i am not russian) but americans onday u will get ur results what u are doing on this world. Putin and Medvedev go forward we are helping u

A leader leads and that is precisely what Mr Putin is doing – rightly or wrongly, for better or worse.
At least he has chosen a course of action and is sticking to it.
I cant say the same for neither Mc Cain or Obama, at least not yet.

Surprised and glad to see such an article on CNN. Reading before the news about the conflict made me thinking that CNN is kind of a propaganda weapon for Georgian president.

Article is good – no doubt about it. And the good news that Putin and Medvedev spoke to CNN. BUT – Is it published on CNN web site? Where I can read the content of this discussion?

CNN is doing a great job in Georgia now! You have schown the world, how russian army looks like and how reliable a russian politicians are. Thank you for that!
Demagogy is characterize a russian politics::))

it's a game. bloody game for feeling of supperiority...

Russian side was extraordinary open in this war, agree. But not at the end of it, from the beg. From 3rd day of war and on for 2 weeks I watched daily briefings to media done by Russian deputy Head Commander Nogovitsyn. Financial Times asked questions and BBC and plenty others. Russian media had a hey day being able to ask army alongside the foreigners. Surely you were also there.

I read it and i like it. Mathew gave good answer to the question why Russia spoke to CNN. Russia wants to cooperate and talk to the West. NOT to fight!

I m surprised by the comments of the Russians. They don't even see the context ,not talking about the strings attached :)))) I really thought of the russians being much more intelligent, before the war I mean.

If you want to know who is behind something, a god way is to see who bennefits from situation. So US have the blame that Russia anexed more land.?!

Russia is a scary place right now.... when a country flies bombers 200ft above one of your aircraft carries and threatens its neighbors with "possible nuclear attack" for adding in DEFENSIVE MEASURES..... that is a country with an agenda..... an evil one

USA should remain focussed with international terrorism rather then encircling Russia with NATO countries. Those days are gone and it would serve no purpose to isolate Russia. It would only help Axis of Evil. Why not make friendship with Russia and make the calculation of benefits. Every journey when started has an end and I don't think USA wants to end its journey of superpower so early. Remember, its hard to make but easy to break.............

Im an investor,and just baan asked a year ago to invest in Georgia,my friends put there 3,600,000 USD .As business consulting I use to advise my friend not o put the mony in Georgia beacuse i follow Saakashvili anti Russian atitude and knew he will make pronocation against Russian,so he done it and get it.
No matter what putin say john McCain just won from this war.
If saakashvili will be smart than he would be good frien of Russia as well the USA for the benfit of his people,but for sure he serve some special intress.

Dmitry Kovalchuk has wrong info got from Russian TV. Russia wanted to get Saakashvili but the mission failed...... and now we have just blah-blah-blah.....

Nonsense... Russian's fight for Osetians in Georgia but keel Osetians and Abchaz "mandarin sellers" on streets of Moscow. Russian government issues illegal passports to Georgian citizens within Georgia borders but denies in citizenship those from Caucasus who lives, works and pays tax in Russia for many years; supporting freedom and recognizing independence of Osetia and Abkhazia, Russian army systematically keeled during decades the whole nation in Chechnia (by the way also Russian citizens). Hallelujah.

I have been living in Tbilisi for more than 15 years, including last few months. It was so evident that Saakashvilli (sorry, but I can't call him a Georgian president, but definitely – an American protegee) is a big clown. And he just set up the nation. Most of us did not like him, but now, after all those stupid steps he undertook... it is too late to change anything. If anyone knew the Abhasian or Osetians, one could understand, that killing innocent people will have many bad consequences. Remember what Kaluev did with the Swiss air-dispatchers? And let me tell you – those whose relatives have been killed in Osetia by Georgians will find and kill ALL the relatives of Georgian solders. And this is only because that idiot... SUCKERshvilli, manipulated by US, allowed to invade... History will judge him in a right way.

Good article. I wish Russian government was more open and gave more access for Western media. I also wish that Western media were more objective and their job was to tell the truth, not to conduct Anti-Russian propoganda.

Will Putin’s interview herald a new era of media-savvy international leaders?

http:##omnologos.wordpress.com#2008#08#29#will-putins-cnn-interview-herald-a-new-era-of-media-savvy-international-leaders

[...] Interestingly, the lesson of how to avoid a bad press has been recently learned by Prime Minister Wen Jiabao of China too. Next in line should be Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, and Mohammed Ahmadinejad of Iran. [...]

I don't think many people doubt that the US gave advice to Saakashvili. I mean, that much is admitted, the US give him assistance and advice. So that raises the questions about what was said to him, with regard to the attack that started the war.

If it is true the US government personal advised Saakashvili to attack civilians and ignite the war, there would be two separate legal issues for Americans to debate.

The first is whether, under international law, Saakashvili and his advisors committed a war crime That question isn't very interesting. The US public are not much interested in international law, and they have their reasons.

The second question is whether REPUBLICAN advocates instigated a war crime under international law in order to further the fortunes of their candidate.

That is a huge question, not only for americans but for people all over the world.

If it is true, as Putin claims, then it means certain americans are spilling blood for the sake of retaining domestic political power.

If that is how the american political machine is seen to operate in the world, then sooner or later some nutcase is going to suicide in a US city with a nuke.

America is still afraid of big-bad-communism. Anytime anything happens in Russia that the U.S. doesn't like, they think it's the second coming of the Cold War. Just another example of the fearful, isolationist attitude that has been forced upon us by Bush. Why can't we stop being so paranoid of any nation that has global economic clout. It's curious that McCain had more to say during this conflict than our own president. The conservatives in power would sell their own mother to have McCain in the White House so they can continue their conquest for global economic and military domination. I wouldn't doubt that the U.S. government had something to do with this. It certainly wouldn't be the first time the conservatives have tried to manipulate global governments and the fact that the U.S is losing economic interest in Russia is reason enough to meddle and start trouble. Some people will do anything for money.

Wow - great story! Will this report be aired on CNN at some point?? I've been watching all the US political coverage and I haven't seen any mention of it. A fascinating time in a fascinating part of the world. Indeed, it can't be bad for Russia at all (I say at risk of being thought the so-called typical-American-saying-what's-right-for-others. Who doesn't, really?). Awesome job. Can't wait to see and hear more.

Putin sounds like he's been getting into Medvedev's Black Sabath albums, particularly Paranoia.

I believe that the test of how far both America and Russia's diplomacy is put to the test once more. Although, the western media is strong and helps shape decisions made by we the rest of the world. It doesn't represent the modern day ordinary people of the world as it used to. why?
the man in the white house made it less popular. Today, everyone feels for Georgia, even in Africa. But, i can tell u this for certainty, the truth is the rest of the world wants to hear Putin not Bush. We all know why. Putin might be wrong, but he is honest and at least he will own up.

Another side of Bush administration that irritates the world and makes the great America look bad. So sad, a great nation in the mind of many but unpopular administration – not easily forgotten or forgiven.

One thing is clear, Russia is in a good place to toss their dice. Africa and the world are paying attention, so Medvedev should speak. Thank you.

At last we heard true point of view after all Georgia's president lies... I'm still shoked by amount of Saakashvili's lies... I hope the just wll triumph in the nearest future

It `s embarrassing to watch CNN’s reports about Georgian Conflict…
Sounds like old fashion Soviet Propaganda…
WHO is the WinneR?
John McCain!!!!! /big fan of Georgian president/

I sure hope this leads to dialogue. It is my understanding that there was conflict before in both of these two break-away regions with the break up of the USSR in Georgia. The solution in my opinion is to let them vote whether they want to stay or not under United Nations supervision.
As to the signing of the nuclear shield with Poland, the timeing could not have been worse. To say it is against a rogue state such as Iran is beyond belief. Putin has some points on his side. BUT to say they are getting out of Georgia and not doing it, is something else again.
Thank you. Bob Moore

Russians – how can you have RUSSIAN citizens in Ossetia and Abkhazia which is – GEORGIA!?! You are forgetting that Georgia is independent country and is not part of USSR (Russia) more than 18 years now! Everyone in Georgia (including Ossetian’s and Abkhaz’s) are GEORGIAN citizens and only way for you guys to get sooo many Russian citizens is through your “Peacekeepers” to deliver truck loads of Russian passport and distribute to Ossetian’s and Abkhaz’s – right?. This is exactly what you were doing for last 17 year instead of peacekeeping!

So you RUSSIANS! – don’t have any right to come to Georgia and “defend” our people. Only way you guys have ever “defended” anyone is through rolling tanks and killing innocent people! Look at what you have done with Chechens.

QUESTION! – Why you have not recognized independence of Chechnya? They wanted independence from Russia too – right? So what did you guys do instead? Roll tanks and KILL millions of Chechens and your own people – like RUSSIAN “Peacekeepers” are doing in Georgia. So were you soldiers as “Peacekeepers” in Chechnya too?

If you have a right to go to Chechnya and regain control of people who doesn’t want to be part of Russia how then you have double standards with GEORGIA. Especially as Georgia is independent country and can solve it own problems without your “HELP”. You “HELP” as peacekeeper has brought incredible amount of violence, fear and anger in to Georgian proper!

Stupid geopoliticians! They can only care of their ambitions playing with people's lifes – like in computer play. But people die real death at the wars. I hate geopoliticians in all countries, they are reason and guilty of wars.

Please, Stop GEORGE WAR BUSH!!!! He is unable to defeat poor crazy peasants from Kabul and Bagdad. Would he destroy the mighty Russians and their unbeatable former Red army? It is time to think Big, and stop dreaming that you´re Super Heroes who can bomb any people, any country, at any desirable time….
Support the Democrats, support intelligent solutions for old problems. Peace is still the answer. Love, Love, Love!!!!!!!

Stop censoring.... Let the people know the truth!!!!!!!! Don´t let Bush destroy the world. Stop this gangster!!! I love USA, but hate facism.

Nothing new in the east. Meaning Russia. There are two process at the time. In one, Putin nd Medvedev they are working simultaneously on rebuilding the Russia's power. In second, Russians are trying to be real strategic partner of the West, first of all EU. For the first read Putin's speech in Munich, February 2007. There is all what is happenig in Georgia. and then, read Medvedev speech on economic summit in St Petersbug, June 2008 (already as president). The point is strategic partnership with Europe. The truth is that both of the processes are running at the time. And far more important: in next 20, 30 years Russia and EU should become real strategic partners There is no alternative to China and India progress. First of all not on the demographic and energy issue. Russia is far to big and underpopulated with a lot of energy reserves and without of up to date technology to resist China and India without Europe. And Europe is and will be even more also underpopulated seeking for energy. There is also the USA and Canada. It's not Hungtington fear It is the strategy for the balance for the future. As US are not family Bush russia is not Putin.

Everybody ask yourself – communists, did they ever say the truth, or –
ever did the right job? or kept the word, even signed one?!
Russian government today is a KGB (by some version FSB) gang, the
best part of communist party, like CC in nazi Germany. You should
always count this, keep in your mind and never believe in any their word.
This is the only way to save the world.
By the way, great George Harrison was singing in his "Save the world":
"Russians have the biggest share
With their long fingers everywhere"

THIS IS VERY SERIOUS , THE IMPLICATION IS CLEAR

JOHN MCCAIN ORCHESTRATED THE WHOLE AFFAIR TO GAIN POLITICAL MOMENTUM OVER HIS RIVAL

DISGUSTING....NO WONDER HE IS SOOOOO QUITE RIGHT NOW..... IT IS NOT THE VP THING ....HE HAS BEEN FOUND OUT

SHAME ON YOU POW , SHAME ON YOU !!!

Putin is clever and controlled but his interview comes off as a desperate attempt to blame and smoke screen the public by pointing at the US. There's not an once of truth in what he said. Really that's the best he could come up with, that the Americans started a war to help a candidate get in office. Really? Candidates have no control over the military. NO ONE wants a war with Russia.

He's obviously a talented leader, but I wouldn't call him good. I really am amazed that people so blindly believe anything that comes out of his mouth.

While it's true that they rarely get interviews, it's not like the Russian point of view on this subject is completely opaque. If you have people who read Russian(and if you're going to report on a country, you better damn sure have people who speak the language, otherwise what's the point), Russian newspapers both loyalist and dissident are online, and the Moscow Times is even in english at http://www.moscowtimes.ru. It takes serious laziness to declare that "Why was there no one? Because there is no access in Russia, we were not allowed to go to the Russian side of the conflict zone. No Russian officials were available to talk to us, as usual. Georgia played the media game, Russia did not." So we'll listen to whatever Saakashvili says but ignore the Russian media or call it biased? This conflict has finally turned me off CNN; the tripe printed here is the same biased and ignorant stories as on Fox News.

Putin is a man that comes from the KGB, probably he rather confront Obama as President of the U.S. than Mcain. He might move the votes to Obama by frightening the voters.

Also, http://www.russiatoday.com. That said, thank you, Mr. Chance, for doing the interview and reporting fairly. Putin is not the new Stalin, there will be no "new cold war" so long as America recognizes the power and interests of other countries.

Matthew, Outstanding job. Russia should be partner to USA an vice versa. Thankyou CNN for being more balnaced in News than most other channels.

First of all I would like to say that Putin is the best thing that ever happened to Russia. What he has done in Russia is simply tremendous, people who portray Putin as an evil character are simply those who don't want to see Russia do as well as it is doing now. We can't possibly talk of blood on Putin's hand while George Bush and Tony Blair respectively lied to the world before killing over a million civilians in Irak.
That's to say I honestly think Putin will down in history as one of the greatest stateman of all time.

I'm really disappointed.
CNN would better put the full text of interview (word to word, correctly translated) other than comments. There are too many of them these days!
Does anybody know what actually Mr. Putin said?
OK, Georgia played the media game and Russia did not. But what are journalist for after all?
And Matthew, it looks that you thought most of all about paying back for you weren’t invited by Russian authorities before. But this is your job, don’t be offended! And what are the Kremlin officials supposed to think about you and CNN after such a biased and perverted reports?

Putin is a very nice wise & fearless man I loved his ways

Putin is doing fine

My friend Vladimir is a good man who was part of ridding Russia and other Republics within USSR of Communist Totalitarian regime. Get educated about this People, not conditioned. The regime was corrupt, Yeltsin regime was even worse. Mr. Putin has the capacity if he wants, to rid the world of the corrupt lying Bush regime. A world without idiot cowboys with backward and untrue religious views. If America continues to allow these "Wolfowitz influenced" fanatical war addicts to run it's servicemen into pointless conflicts, sooner or later America will run up against a country that can actually defend itself like say "Russia" On that day the Earth will shake and men shall tremble for fear of their evidenced inevitable Doom.......

It's a sad commentary that I find Mr. Putin's perspectives more believable than Mr. Bush's. Maybe GW was blind-sided by anti-Russian, pro-oil fanatics in his administration – those who really run the country...... Why can't CNN and other media reporters look at the Georgia situation from Russia's perspective? How would the US act if Cuba installed missiles on our southern borders and if Mexico tried to reclaim parts of Texas?

To judge Russia before hearing their side is ignorance,the world cannot afford anymore"Cold War thinking".We can attempt to be emperical and see their point of view.

Russia should be heard. I think that Bush has messed up all kinds of relationships with other countries, including Russia. Russia does not have the same mentality as it had during the cold war. Russia just wants to be respected for being what it is, a great country. The U.S. could have good relations with Russia again, if it would just listen and give them a chance. I hope that the next president of the U.S. understands this and tries to foster a better relationship with Russia.

One more thing. I don't see why the U.S. condems the actions that Russia took. Look at what the U.S. has done in Iraq and Afganistan. I don't see why the U.S. thinks that it is the only country that has a right to invade other countries and that if another country like Russia invades, it is the moral judge that can say if the invasion is good or not.

I hope things change in the future, for the good of the U.S. and Russia.

I read the comments of Russian citizens concerning interview CNN with Putin.
Please, Russians, protect your citizens in your territory! Do not distribute by force the Russian passports to our citizens, and then do not manipulate it, – naming military operations in territory of Georgia, as protection of the Russian citizens. Also read a history, instead of listen deceit, as if it Stalin has presented the Georgians of territory of Abkhazia and South Osetia, this is a lie, in which want to believe everyone, who wants to justify, war against Georgia.
The name "South Osetia" created by Communists, and ours Russians "Big Brothers" deliberately forget – that "South Osetia" historically represents one of regions of Georgia and is called "Samachablo", Communists (Stalin) has settled them by Ossetians and named "South Osetia", It is politics of Russian Communists – "sharing and authority".
Stop deceit, violence and irresponsibility.
Thanks CNN, for the interview, which once again has shown the face of Russian KGB.
Sorry for my bad English

Putin was sloppy with his intelence of attacking and blaming others for it was even worse. Like a 5 year old! Blaming America for finding one of America's men there is no reason to broad cast that to the world. Putin is just trying to lie with using reverse sphycoligy to make the rest of the world start to believe that America is most of the problem and to make Russia not look to foolish and stupid. Putin let his men murder and destroy every home or flat that his men could find. The looting was absolutly WEAK. Bums & losers do that crap! To get mad at America for using Battleships to bring aide to Georgia was idiotic because if Moscow knew what they did made most of the world not be able to trust Russia with anything. For America to be kind enough to bring aide to Georgia is no reason to tell the world you hate it. You have to be completely heartless to murder all thous people and then get mad how we bring aide to them. Trust buddy, you lost it again as usual.
My point is that you can't just attack by murdering 1000's when really you hated Mikhail Saakashvili..You should have made an iteligant plan of attack for his bases and then him "alone" if possible. Accidents happen all the time with air strikes and ground attacks but not to destroy everything you see and cut throats of innocent people. You are no better that Iraqy idiots
I know all happens differently in different countries but we knew that Russia changed and had no idea you would be capable of being that sloppy and heartless. You blew it for Russia just like Russia has always done. I guess it's a 20 year cycle for Russia to go back down. Putin, you just didn't have to go that far man!
As for Matthew Chance, great job getting in to have such a chance like that for a reporter to talk to both the Russian leaders. Every reporters dream I'm sure. But how you talked about how great ful you were to be able to have that chance was starting to sound to conflicting. You kissed there ass to much as if you were one of them. You talked tomuch about you in that report to where I was beginning that CNN is stationed in Moscow! I do know this, Cnn is really Russian and very pro Obhama and Fox News is American and pro McCain. But that's not the topic or nor do I or anyone else care but you have shown me to be scared to death when you were trying to ask questions to Putin in that sitdown enterview. Remember Matthew Chance, Putin and his other men will kill you in a drop of a hats notice for any reason. So when this gets worse and I mean much worse with Russia and the U.S. Putin will kill your ass for the hell of it. He knows that will really make great TV along with the War. Congrats!

Matthew Chance is too excited about his interview and has inflated its significance. Russia is too big to care about what Americans think; otherwise they wouldn't have attacked Georgia.

Thank you CNN, I finaly heard what Russia has to say,

I'm off BBC now for sure, you do read a lot of lie in the stories.

Great report,keep up good work.

I tentatively concluded a week before Vladimir Putin's public accusation, that the US administration had given the go ahead to President Saakashvili of Georgia to attack the capital of the breakaway province of South Ossetia. Although I don't like the Russian nationalists in general and Putin in particular, I believe Putin's accusation that the U.S. orchistrated the crisis for political reasons because:

John McCain's campaign director, Randy Scheunemann, a neoconservative in favor of a new cold war with Russia, was Georgia's chief lobbyist until recently. McCain, not President Bush, gave a major public statement and public press conference about Russia's defense of South Ossetia and incursions into Georgia. Obama was on vacation after scoring big points with our allies in his foreign trip.

So, the timing of the crisis, the presidential role-playing of McCain, and Scheunemann's ties to Georgia all point to using Saakasvili as a pawn to raise the Russian scare before the November election and to make McCain look tougher than Obama.

It is more than disgusting; it is treason.
Jean E. Rosenfeld
just a historian

1) What if putin is right in his assertion??

2) I'm more frightened of someone who is "dumb and strong" (an example which comes to mind is G.W. Bush) than "smart and strong". It's more probable that the dumb guy will get us into a 3rd world war.

Putin is well ahead of the game. He will cause the West to second guess his next moves, causing enough fear and instability in the oil market to keep prices uncomfortably high. the ensuing backlash on American voters will help Obama's Democrats to power. Then Putin will make his real intentions for Georgia, the Crimea and Moldova clear.

1. Putin was not a spy – please check this rubbish before repeating it again.
2. There are pictures of dead black people in Georgian uniform taken in Tshinvali. Given that Americans instructed Georgian army, and Georgians themselves are Caucasians, I think it could be assumed with high probability, those were bodies of Americans.

Interesting- I wrote the same thing Putin is now saying 10 days ago, that this was perhaps encouraged by neocons to help McCain.

http://hammernews.com/georgia.htm

I hear almost every talking about how Russia is to tough for anyone. How America can't handle Russia in a real War. "Most" of everyone is forgetting about how and who killed most of the innocent people in the villages. How Russia came to the house and found old helpless people and murdered them with no remores or question. Not just murder them but did that to loot and steal. Everyone has forgotten the dead in the whole stupid deal. Now it's a blaming game. Of course anyone can look tough by killing 1000's and tough people look even tougher when they don't liten to anyone.
The facts about Russia being tougher than America is this: Listen and remember this. America has more than enough men to fight all of Moscow. America has everything they need to defend them selves with all of our protective equipment, protective meaning equipment on our men with vest and etc. and defence equipment to defend all attacks towards America. Moscow talks highly about there Nuclear missiles and how they can fly right past American defence missiles that intercept Russia's missile in the air before they get to America or anywhere else America is. Believe this and don't forget it please, Americans have more than Russia has ever thought when it comes to offensive or defensive Artillery from America's Military. These are truly the fact so don't continue to believe what all you read or hear. Russia has for many many years now had 100's of their spys here in the U.S. to try and get their inteligence on how to build our jets or make most of our missiles. Spys here to try to get all of anything they can get to learn how to make what the U.S. makes. There are plenty of article facting all that I'm writing. Just search it on-line, you will find plenty. But I haven't got my info from that, i promise. America has the most dominate air force in the world. I know everyone has there different opinions about that but it's very true x 10. The U.S military has to much that is and has been classified from any spy or anyone else for that matter that would make everyone fall dead just by looking at what is classified. Also it is very true that America is in a horrible economic time right now. LOL, The citizens are the ones that have to live with that right now but not the U.S. Government. The Government is the reason the U.S. people are in this situation. The Government has collected nicely on the rise of gas for many years now along with ever other ways of receiving money. Plus money doesn't really exist for the Government. It's just paper to them. They are the ones that print it!
So America is plenty and very ready for a HUGE War. McCain doesn't like Russia and I'm sure he will easily cause World War 3 anyway. Oh. Everyone also thinks that America is busy in Iraq and we can't be thinking of War right now. That's very false too beause Iraq is just another base the U.S. can deploy U.S. men from and to launch missiles or aircraft from. How convenient huh? Sounds like the Poland idea happened so fast.. lol.. Trust me!

Putin is well ahead of the game. He will cause the West to second guess his next moves, instilling enough fear and instability in the oil market to keep prices uncomfortably high. The ensuing backlash on American voters will help Obama's Democrats to power. Then Putin will make his real intentions for Georgia, the Crimea and Moldova clear.

As an American, I am ashamed of the US and its allies' double standards. The U.S. unilaterally attacked Iraq for no ostensible reason, its current president has single handedly turned around a budget surplus into the largest deficit ever and these are but the tip of the iceberg. We supported the cessation of East Timor, Serbia and all the 'pro-western' states in mounting, bloody conflicts. Russia attacks Georgia over Georgia's unequivocal annexation of South Ossetia and Abkhazia and suddenly Russia is the bad guy?! Russia recognizes the freedom of states that want nothing to do with Georgia and Russia is the bad guy?! All the press show Rice and pro-western leaders telling only one side of the story – kudos to CNN to bring out Russia's version of the conflict out to light.

Incidentally, welcome back cold war. The loss of the bi-polar balance in power had reduced the world into shambles thanks to the U.S. taking over the 'responsibility' of policing the world.

During 1950 USA in Guatemala has established radical communistic groups which were terrorizing country in order to discredit real communists...

From US really everything is to be expected in order to maintain dominance

The world (western world ) should never forget the blood in the streets of Praga and Budapest. Russians do not understand the world DEMOCRACY and they do not want to be like that. They like the dictatorships and that` s good for them.
Georgians do really need help. It is the HELP which didn` t go to Czechoslovakia. They are independent, and they like the democracy and they want to follow western values. What`s wrong with that?
Russians doesn` t like it.
That` s their problem and that`s why the western powers should not allow that Russians start another Chechnya in Georgia.

Whether Poetin can be trusted, Im not sure.
But for all Americans it is important to watch their current president carefully and prevent him from putting the place on fire to force a third term or any special conditions or rule by executive powers.

Americans should most of all get the country safely into the hands of a next president and get a decent dose of daylight shed on what your current president has been doing.

And it could very well be that G.W is catalizing current conflicts to create a clamming but unrealistic call for abnormal measures.
G.W. should retire and play football with his team, and that should be the end of it.

The one who hates western, in particular, US political and democratic system with all of his fibers, the one who started active ideological propaganda in Russia since his ascension to power in 2000 in no way deserves any kind comments.

2 Lali: it is NOT Putin who admires Stalin and Beria. It is Saakashvili and his wife who admire and wish to follow 'prominent' Georgian leaders from the past, according to Saakashvili and his wife. Saakashvili's wife clearly stated it in a number of interviews. just google them and lets not go on confusing people.

Perhaps there is a reason why Putin did not speak to CNN. Western media, including CNN, has compromised themselves to the point that only insane will listen and trust them.

The real threat is the Bush administration who lies all the time and is ready to sacrifice its own people to satisfy their ambitions, paranoia and endless desire to dominate the world at any cost. What happend to democracy of which they talk? Iraq, Afghanistan, etc are just a few of many that come to mind... do you really think they care about anybody else? We all are just little fish in their insane and criminal game.

I personally believe Putin as it is not impossible that the US was behind it. I am glad that Russia was able to stand up for its people and stopped Georgian agression.

This isnt going to change anything. Even if Russia is acting in self defence and not responsible in any shape or form (as was the case during the recent "Georgean" agression) they will still be blamed and vilified because the West wants to see Russia fall. The CNN, BBC and all the other western media agents of spin, of course do their best to achieve the objective mentioned above. Why? Because thier governments instruct them to do so. No secrets there.

What the Russian people need to know is that there are millions of people around the world who support them and thier leadrship. With Russia strong again I feel a lot safer........and happier.

It is funny that everybody thinks that Georgia started the war without knowing all facts. I am not on anybodies side, but my questions are: Does anybody know that Ossetian President, Kokoiti, gave interview to Russian TV, well before West saw Georgian artillery on their TVs "starting" the war, were he appeared in army camouflage reporting to the whole world that he is starting military operation to "free his land from Georgians..."? I saw this interview with my own eyes and I am sure it can be found again if somebody is interested. Does anybody think that this is not a declaration of war on Georgia? Also, does anybody know that right after this interview heavy artillery started to shell Georgian villages from Tskhinvali? Does anybody know that there were casualties in Georgian peacekeepers and civilians? Does anybody know that heavy artillery was not allowed for to have for both sides in that region and Russian peacekeepers should have prevented this type of weapons to be transported to that region? I hope everybody understands that we are talking about serious, deadly weapons, not flies and they are not easy to smuggle through Russian peacekeeper's military checkpoints. After few days of heavy fire and casualties Georgia responded the way they have responded. Does anybody still think that Georgia started the war?

Putin is a shaolin trained zen master and would know when the time is correct to talk to the right people. He is mentioned in the book FORESEEN which discusses advanced time travel technology and why he is the man who will bring peace to this planet. CNN needs to begin to earn international trust among knowledeable people and then CNN will also be in the know. It is that simple.

Dear Matthew,
You are not relating exactly what Mr. Putin said about americans not being in Osetia. On the contrary, he expressed doubts that americans were there at that time .Is it lack of knowledge of the Russian language or are you sabotaging what Mr. Putin actually said and here comes a questions of your prfessoinalism and ethics- I have read the whole interview in Russian. Why haven't you just published the interview itself without your comments or thoughts, so an educated reader is given an opportunity to come up with his/hers own opinion?

Intelligent, gutsy and with an agenda. Putin has brought character to a once thick and monolithic government, but his actions have to be clear, respectful and most importantly bloodless.

The USA also has to stop being paranoid about who is an ally and who is not. They have to start recognizing that leadership comes with empathy and respect towards other nations.

These two countries should learn from their mistakes and be more careful about preconceptions of who is more able to police the world, cause none has done a great job in their own backyards.

This shown exactly what the communist is all about. when they are weak, they will lay low like after the USSR fall...but when they are strong, they will show their horn, devil side always wants to occupied the neighbor countries... That's why all of them try to join NATO asap to avoid something like this in the future when the Russia get back to the level they have before.
And Putin will treat it as personal vendetta.

Always remember they were once communist will be forever communist mind...especially in KGB organization.

It was not long ago that 'Condy' and George Bush turned a blind eye to the attack on Lebanon by Israel, missiles and bombs dropped in residential areas with latest US military hardware cluster bombs which for years to come will maim civilians. Anr the reason – the kidnap of a few soldiers. The US sets a trend and countries like Russia follow. For every finger you point there are more pointing back. The US should look unto itself and ask, "Are you really holding yourself to be the moral watchdog of the world through your actions.

Please God, may Obama win.

Putin is a smart and tough polititian, unlike Bush he has made his country strong economically with good and bad policies.
Bush one time called Putin his best friend in the East !
While calling him friend Bush should have given him the due respect he deserves.

Good Read...No matter what spin Mr. Mikheil Saakashvili puts to the world about the counter offensive by Russia. The Georgians did attack their own region of South Ossetia which in essence is a government deliberately instigating civil war on its own people. Now…if Georgia believes that this region is part of its own boarders, why attach it with such disregard for human life irrespective of what passport they hold.

I think the West continues to consistently paint Russia as the aggressor but in this case I think Prime Minister Putin has been forced to make such a move in order to keep the peace.

Russia need to do more in terms of its public relations as we want to hear your side of the story as much as we want to hear the other side. Having a general with a green suit tending the cameras is not the most appealing image for Russia.

Due to Putin, Russia is independent of the USA now, like China. Nevertheless, Russia is not so strong still. Really, Putin must break diplomatic relation with the USA and Britain for their support of Georgia aggression against South Ossetia.

Gentlemen,
the only persons I would like to express my congratulation for his endless efforts is Mr. Putin , the President and all members of the russian government.
Comments to the USA and Europe are needless and I can only wonder when will they ( USA & Europe ) ever learn and not showing so openly to the rest of the world that they learned from history that they learned nothing from history.

Manfred H Hermann

Surprisingly, this is more or less balanced interview in a largely anti-Russian chorus, and what's even more surprising, made by the media agency famous for its anti-Russian stance!

So I am asking myself, what's the reason of this generosity? I understand that partially it is gratitude for the choice of CNN for this interview with Putin, but when I read the end of the article, I see that there's a point that says, in plain words, the following: "we all know that CNN have been biased. Do yo know why? It's Russians, they simply refused us from the scenes!"

This is partly true, since Kremlin did crush free press in Russia and does not trust media, especially uncontrolled media.

But at the same time I am thinking – if you would be willing to serve truthful information, you would be able to collect all necessary facts regardless.

So this article is not entirely honest, although it is much better than most of what is published about Russia.

And in general, it is negative about Putin's Russia nearly as much as everything else.

I am only hoping that Putin and Bush leave their offices. I hope that Obama will change America again, from superpower of military influence to superpower that wins Cold Wars without a single shot.

The problem for America is that China and Russia do not have their Obamas. Yet or forever?

You say that for 7 years you didn’t get to have interview the guy and had a full interview and this is all you have to say?

I really think that Sakashvili guy feed you so much poo that CNN was discredited, and now that you had to report the other side, you shut your reporting on the subject.

Really shows what you made of. No stones to admit mistakes.

I do not know about politics, I just know that all politicians are corrupted and they have a thristy for power. What I know that inocent people is dying and the world should not tolerate that.

Wouldnt surprise me a Mccain-Bush setup to start a war in Georgia.
The majority of the 1700 initial victimes were russians/ossetians, not Georgians !

I was very shocked at the very biased reporting by CNN on the Georgian war.
I did not know at the time that CNN had no access to the Russian side.
But instead of letting Saakashvili act as at such length as a pathetic drama queen on CNN, you should have broadcasted pictures of the Borneo jungle or even of your fish-tank if you had nothing better on hand.
After giving so much air-time to Saakashvili to spread what was obviously lies and deception, CNN's reputation for fairness has been seriously damaged ; it will take a long time before I trust again the reporting on CNN.
And by the way, why is this Georgian president allowed to display the European Union flag on a par with his own ?
To the best of my knowledge, Georgia is not part of the EU, and after this lunatic and failed attempt at forcing the EU's hand, I hope that Georgia will NEVER be allowed to join ...

So I watched the interview and read the transcript.

Dear CNN employees, this is exactly like in Putin's Russia – if you are smart enough to install a satellite dish or browse Internet, you can easily have access to all information.

But if you only watch TV, like most people do In Russian and US, you would watch a short CNN cutout which plainly suggests that Putin unssubstantatedly accueses US of involvement, and imposes economic sanctions. TV interview does not contain any factual insight about the ethnic history or recent events of the conflicts, but is merely... just another piece of anti-Russian propaganda.

Shame on you, "free press". You are no better than Kremlin-controlled central Federal TV channels of Russia.

AND this time you cannot complain that you have not been given an opportunity or information.

During this conflict between Georgia and South Ossetia, I used to read articles in here. I was really disappointed! Practically everybody blamed Rissia, called it agressor. In real, Russia protected South Ossetia: so why we call Russia an agressor? More over, the russians helped people in South Ossetia: they sent their money and blood, our doctors worked in there. In this article, Putin was absolutly right (e.x.about US passport). I want to thank CNN for interviewing russian Prime Minister and I hope people, who call Russia 'agressor', will change their opinion or even think about it one more time.

Lets not forget Russian previous history. For so far goverment has been more indifferent than kind towords her people. Just remember Ukrain after World war2, remember Moskows controversal apartment block bomings, "resque" operation in moskows theather, Chechnya war. Likewise Lets not forget backround of the Abhasian conflict. How can someone still see respect on humanity in all this. Big nations are never trustfull. America and Russia are quite the same in this respect. There is so much propaganda from bought sides in this conflict that there is no way single person could see the truth of it as so little time has passed by, specially if not studied the subject years before.

A serious mistake by EU nations and the US paved the way for Russia to act as it did – the recognition of separation of Kosovo from Serbia with the motivation to protect an ethnic group instead of diplomatic pressure on Serbia to garantie its rights within Serbia.

As Russia develpes it large natural gas and oil reserves they will strive to again become a super power as the west sleeps again not realizing that we are on the brink of a new COLD WAR. The Ironcurtin is riseing again but this time the stakes are much higher. The west must realize Putin has only one focus MOTHER RUSSIA

Well im Glad CNN has a Journalist like you!
Maybe ill give CNN a Second Chance...

A litle objectivity would enhance the validity of your article;
Several times you described Putin as "KGB spy" and as a person with "more than liitle blood on his hands". I am not quite sure that You, or any other CNN reporter for that matter, has ever referred to our former president Bush as a CIA spy or that you ever mentioned blood on the hands of our current president.
It is a high noon for us to realize that we are the ones that poke holes into our relationship with the Russians and there is no wonder why they distrust us so profoundly. We never fail to aggrevate the situation with our arrogant behavior around their immediate borders. Instead of opening our arms and receive humbled Russia in our fold we took over the posts that she so recently relinquished. We need cooperative Russia on our side as much as they need us.

Good job, Matthew! Asking this question ( Why Putin and Medvedev spoke to CNN?) is already an answer. I also hope as you said they will engage Western media, though I seriously doubt that they will take you to the other Russian side of the war as they will have to show you war crimes they committed, which are already proven by UN experts based on satellite pictures and Human Right Watch obtained evidences.

1. Putin is antistalin because he defied stalinists idea of absorbing Abkhazia and ossetia into georgia. Stalininists are those who believe they should be part of georgia and Putin made it clear.

2. I agree that poultry thing is a response to US, but not to their support of the georgian genocide, but to our statement that we will block Russia from WTO. Unlike our government, you can tell that they are smart - they first told everybody that WTO is no longer a priority for Russia, and then said that we do not to follow unprofitable (for Russia) contracts, such as us poultry (known in russia as "Bush's legs")

3. I am shocked by this article because it sounds like whatever Putin said is totally ignored, and instead you hear all that garbage from the CNN correspondent (KGB style, etc). Tells you about the professionalism of the media.

4. If you read original CNN interview, and try to be objective, what Putin is saying is very reasonable. I am not sure why people just do not follow logic and try to listen to each other.

If an american passport holding attacker of the Russian passport holding civilians is found then he should be treated like the so called terrorists or the young, perhaps innocent, Canadian kid in Guantanamo who, it is alleged, took american lives. Why the double standard? Russia should investigate this to the end and bring them to justice...guns first. Today, in Iraq, an official is detained because he, it is alleged, was involved in the deaths of americans. Putin and Mednedev should push this situation to the limit, a lesson from america, and of course the entire west will say they are dangerous politicians.
The question is how many americans were fighting in Israel and Georgia? Bring them all to justice. Russia should have its own Guantanamo. What is good for the west should be good for China and Russia.
We need a cold war to bring about an equilibrium point in world politics. Russia has tried a lot to accommodate the guests, namely the west's so called powerful countries, but they want to take over its master bedroom with a smile and a pat on the back, while pushing a stick up their host's bum.
Russia has to show its power now. It has been very tolerant of the US's push into its backyard. America thought they now have the power to screw every country in the world since the russians were not acting on every front. The threshold level of tolerance/intolerance is here and america must understand that its strength which lies with its allies coming to their calls, will soon fade after the "friends" find out that they are the ones that forego opportunities when america calls for an embargo on its sovereign nations. Non aligned nations love when America has embargoes. They cash in, Europe gets screwed.

When I found (yes, after a search) the "exclusive" clip of the CNN interview, I was disappointed to learn that it was only a 2:38 second blip of the entire ½ hour interview. After finding an actual transcript of the entire interview – buried in the bowels of the CNN website, behind stories of Lindsay Lohan and mothers who microwave their babies, I was angered.

Why did CNN choose to air only 2:38 of this 1/2 hour interview (for Internet distribution) – and of those 2 minutes and 38 seconds, dedicate about 30 seconds to unrelated poultry bans? Was CNN intentionally posturing Putin to appear conspiratorial and anti-American? Those comments in the context of the entire interview seem far less radical than the editing job CNN chose to air.

Like everything else these days, this piece too reeked of political spin instead of true journalism.

Overall, disappointing “exclusive” scoop.

I believe in the doctrince of Russian governmnt, the Putin point is clear and to call a spade a spade Russian are not guilty this time around

I beleive the Republicans and Bush administration iwill do anything to retain power.

Russia is interested in establishing itself as a real player on the world stage. Ok we recognize this, and poking Georgia's eyes out is clearly part of this strategy to keep that region under it's sphere of influence. I said all along Russia would absorb the two breakaway regions when this fighting broke out, guess what: they openly admit that in a few years it's very likely that they will become annex by Russia. Well i was completely correct, despite all these Pro-Russian Europeans (and others) who are Pro-Russian simply to be Anti-American.

Ok sure they want peace and prosperity. Right, because who DOESN'T want those things? Sure, and the US invaded iraq purely because of WMDS. It's the same story, different side. It's about power and influence, and it's a struggle between two sides for it. History is full of conflict for these reasons, while being complicated, does break down into this category. Georgia really should have left well enough alone, but it was their decision and they were punished for it.

Putin's claims about the US having some influence isn't completely untrue. I'm sure the American government had some influence there (after all they are allied with Georgia) so of course they had some sort of influence. Allies influence each other, and i'm sure this angered Russia just like the Poland missile batteries anger them. However, to claim it was done to support a presidential candidate is not only completely ludicrous, it's outright insulting without a shred of evidence to back it up. You might as well say Man never landed on the moon (which oddly enough many people think it was a hoax – fools all of them)

I respect Putin, but i don't trust him. Why should I? I know Russians like him, and that's fine. He made them feel special again, but that still doesn't mean he has earned my trust; I take his words lightly. He's a former KGB agent. This part of his life will always influence him, so to dismiss it as "oh he's different now" is utter nonsense.

Yeah yeah call me paranoid, it's not paranoia that makes me say this, it's understanding the pattern of history and learning it that makes me wary of the present. But then again I don't expect many people to understand my views, but I must present them when I see such a Pro-Russian slant in these opinions.

I have to present the other side of the isle; Relathorn we understand he's a Russian hero, but would you trust an John McCain? He's a (war) hero on our side as well. That doesn't mean you trust him does it? Stop trying to push off your own bigotry as "American Stereotyping" He isn't stereotyping anything, the man is a former KGB agent, that's just pure fact. I didn't say he was a bad man, in fact he's a great man, but he's also a dangerous man.

I am pleased to see CNN's interview of the Russian leadership. Regardless of any differences we might have with this culture it is nevertheless a major player on the world stage, and we have more in common with Russia than with China. Mr Putin deserves credit for an incredible job in resurrecting Russia's economy after the devastation caused by the death throes of communism. If we give Russia the respect it deserves on the world stage, even if we do not always agree with its methods it can only help us avoid some dangerous confrontations in the future. Russia needs time to evolve into its own form of democracy. So I hope CNN will try whenever possible to encourage a greater interaction between our two cultures.

Yes it is time for Russia to full join the media game and use and abuse the media like any other politician or country throughout the world.

So good on you CNN and I hope that the Russian officials will be given more access to international media by the Russian authorities.

Concerning the conflict, surely it was not a war maybe a military conflict but to call it war is a little bit over the top. Anyway this is my take on the issue. South Ossetia and Abkhazia have a Russian majority so obviously Russia wants to look after them. This is the same what happened in Kosovo. Of course the minorities in those regions the Georgians are not happy and maybe even afraid of not belonging to Georgia in the long run, but fact is that this is exactly what will happen. Same what the West did for Kosovo.

However there are a few major differences between the Kosovo issue and the South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions.

1. Russia has no major harbor anymore in the Black Sea; they are currently using the now Ukrainian ports. So Russia knows that the Ukrainian ports in the long run will not be accessible for their Black Sea fleet. Abkhazia after getting a status like Kosovo or even becoming part of Russia will give the Russian fleet full access to their ports. And these ports will be developed and become bigger to be able to service the Russian fleet.
2. South Ossetia simply a matter of natural resources.

So obviously Russia will not accept that Russian majorities in both regions will become a minority within greater Georgia and maybe be mistreated as Russians feel mistreated in the Baltic States. And geographical it is important to Russia to have access to both those regions.

So if the West gave Kosovo the right to be independent and went to war for this with Yugoslavia (Serbia) than how come the West will not allow Russia to do the same?

I am just trying to look at this from a logical point of view, and not emotional. I am neither Russian nor Georgian just a world citizen with an opinion.

Also we should not forget what we are talking about when people start to fear that maybe the Georgian crises will start a cold war again.

Abkhazia Total 8,432 km² or 3,256 sq mi
Population around 200000
South Ossetia Total 3,900 km² or 1,506 sq mi

sorry forgot the population of South Ossetia around 70000

Is anyone seriously thinking that anyone will start a cold war over this??

well ww1 started because some dude got shot

Ramsi Hashash – You are not right. In these republics there are no natural resources. Only palms and tangerins.
In South Ossetia and Abkhazia all population – russian, abkhazian, armenians and ossets (Alans), only a few villages Georgian.
South Ossetia and Northern Ossetia is one republic. Earlier she was called – Alania. Both Abkhazia and Ossetia were attributed to Georgia with the Georgian politics at the USSR. But abkhazians and ossets do not want to live with Georgia. And with her will never live.
Russia simply protected peoples from a genocide. And Abkhazia also does not want to join Russia. She simply thanks Russian for the rescue. Since 1920 Beria (Georgian) spent a genocide of these nations. Stalin, Gamsahurdia... And now has continued it Saakashvilli. Georgia – as the USSR. Georgia and the USSR is angrily on our planet.
The USA blocked information press. This message will appear? Probably – no. In the USA probably no democracy and a freedom of speech.Well that in Europe (EU) write the truth. There there is a freedom of speech and democracy!

I wish all happiness and love! Only the love and friendship of peoples will rescue the world!

What a good interview?

It is the time for russia to show how powerful nation it was and is. If Americans only attack the third world countries withount any reason, then there must be some country to attact on those country backed by US, such as coward Georgia. If Georgia is not powerful enough, then why they challenged Russia, may be back suppor from US. Now it a lesson to other countries that donot perform any stupid things just by getting back force from US.

Thanks Medvedev and Putin, giving a new lesson to the entire world and thanks CNN for covering the interview, also we would be grateful if you put the visual interviews on the websits.

Thanks.

I hope, nobody will start a cold war. First of all, it's useless practically: nowdays every country has chemical and nuclear weapons, and all the world will be injured. And the main question: why? Sure, I understand maybe there're some reasons, but, in my opinion, they're little, too little to begin fighting! I think, a majority of people share my opinion: it's unbelieveable that somebody wants to fight.

For Mr.Ramsi Hashash and others: in the wake of previous Georgian "military operation' in 1989 over 100,000 Ossetians (mainly old people, kids and women) fled to mainland Russia to save their lives. This time 1 692 civilians were killed overnight in Tshinval bombings and Georgian ground troops assault. Of course, this is not enough to start the 3rd World War for. One thing you people have to understand: Russia's action saved the people od S.Ossetia and Abkhasia from extermination, albeit I'm sure you couldn't care less... Most disappointing thing is that the man who's irresponsible,bloodthursty adventure triggered the conflict remains the darling of global TV networks and keeps feeding you with lies about the Russian aggression.

Mathew, just because CNN is ignored by the Russian politicians doesn't mean Russia is closed to western press! One can easily look up all of the interviews Putin gave to western press while he was in office. One can also see that most news networks had staff inside the battle zone, travelling with the russian troops, including American journalists. You don't see their reports on the front page... why?

Putin is not too far off as regards the US having something to do with the conflict. The whole thing is like "wag the dog" – the reality TV version. Except it failed!

As a news story, this one's already off the radar of major newsmakers in the States. Why? read above... :)

Why don't you place the entire version of the inteview on this site in written? This is strange but not what you said is.

A Russian joke:
Mr. Bush phones Mr. Saakashvili:
- Michael! Why did you lie to me that there is oil in South Ossetia?
- George! I swear by my mom there has been some...

Nothing "strange and unexpected". CNN started reporting on the events in S.Ossetia of 080808 since afternoon with Russian troops entering S.Ossetia (missing the prelude of Georgian night befor shelling of Tshinvali and their morning attack on this town). So we here in Russia are so naive to think that such a mispresentation of CNN caused the pro-Georgian and anti-Russian state of world public opinion on the event. And it seems quite natural to try to clear up the situation just from that media-source which became the source of such a one-sided information just to regain some balance.

One question: Why do you americans and your president pronounce Ossetia like “oseesha”. I think it is indicative of how really care for the small nations including your alledged friend Georgia and esspecially demonstrates your knowledge of the problem.

For Mr.Ramsi Hashash and others: in the wake of previous Georgian “military operation’ in 1989 over 100,000 Ossetians (mainly old people, kids and women) fled to mainland Russia to save their lives. This time 1 692 civilians were killed overnight in Tshinval bombings and conseqent Georgian ground troops assault. Of course, this is not enough to start the 3rd World War for. One thing you people have to understand: Russia’s action saved the people of S.Ossetia and Abkhasia from extermination, albeit I’m sure you couldn’t care less… Most disappointing thing is that the man who’s irresponsible,bloodthursty adventure triggered off the conflict remains the darling of global TV networks and keeps feeding you with lies about the Russian aggression.

EU is a force of good in the world
Rusia is looks like "the evil empire " right now

Guys u remember Cecenia and the war... was a bloodbath and now i see putin and mediev pateticly accusing georgia of 2000 men dead(most of them rebel fighters)

Rusia saving the minorities in georgia from georgia genocid ....haha
u must be a fool to belive them

long live rusian nationalism....Nationalism will bring u victory!!!
stalin propaganda still lives in the rusians colective mind..they are the great people and the great empire
patetic

Isn't it amazing how Russian/Putin propaganda can get sent out free as commentary to the whole world via the Internet aimed at broadcast and print media? Just look at the responses here and at other media sources, an abnormally large pro Putin/Russia anti US/Democracy segment of comments. One would think Putin has employed a PR firm and hired a large number of Putiniks to e-mail his propaganda messages all over the world... what a great idea!

CNN will send its Senior International correspondents half way around the Earth to talk for seven minutes to the ex-KGB spy with "more than a little blood on his hands" who "made Russia’s ruthless crackdown on Chechen separatists into an almost personal vendetta"; and will provide unlimited time and space to this interview, regardless of its merits.

On the other hand, CNN will not print a decent, reasonable opinion about one of its correspondents if it does not exalt CNN or the correspondent himself.

What a shame. That's what stinks so much about America in general and CNN in particular. PRIDE!

It looks like the propaganda war is being waged here on CNN.

Georgia attacked Russia? Georgia attacked the South Ossetia capitol? Isn't South Ossetia part of Georgia? Doesn't Georgia have a right to secure its own territory? Does Russia have a right to invade Georgia because Russia supports some Russian loyalist separatists in South Ossetia ?

How is Russia not being two-faced about this? Doesn't Russia claim Chechnya as part of it's own territory? Russia has been ruthless in it's actions in Chechnya. And they whine about Georgia trying to secure their own borders, which include South Ossetia? Georgia has a right to do so, much as the United States did during it's Civil War.

Russia looks to be trying to create a new USSR, with Putin as it's newest dictator.

David, Chicago, IL
It more looks like americans are totally ignorant of what is and was going on in Caucasus. Most of them do not even know where Caucasus is situated. Read history!
How about agression against Iraq, Yugoslavia, Vietnam, Panama, Cuba, Salvador, Nicaragua, Korea, bombing of Hiroshima, intimidation of Iran. Who is the dictator? What moral right do you guys have to blame Russia?

I don't mean to make light of world events, but I really did enjoy the interview with Putin. I watched the 6 minute clip, and I think you really get an insight into what kind of man Putin is, how he sees himself, and how he wants to portray himself to the outside world.

As an American, that is a scary sight to behold! No good has ever come of a world leader who thinks himself a tough guy!

I enjoyed reading Mr. Chance's blog, but am curious as to what went on behind the scenes. Did Mr. Putin shake his hand? Was he (the reporter) nervous? Was Putin nervous? What were they drinking? What did Putin do when the interview was over? Just curious....

Oh yes, KGB, such a wonderful benevolent organization. One might say almost Humanitarian in their directive to come to the aid of the downtrodden. Mr. Putin in particular is glorious in his aspirations to rescue the masses from the evil freedom of democracy and self rule. Recent examples in Georgia show how magnanimous he can be as a result of his KGB inculcation. Isn't despotism wonderful?

"But at least they are in the debate now — and that can’t be bad for Russia"

Posted by: Matthew Chance, Senior international Correspondent
Filed under: General • Georgia
______________________________________________________
SHAME SHAME

QUESTION : why weren´t they in the debate before access to CNN?

Maybe because your fellow news brotheren from Russia , like the rest of the world, have been shut out by government control of all media not run by Putin.........and life can be at risk.

QUESTION: The president of a closed society surely isn´t using CNN as a ¨ pawn of war¨ to discuss the reasons for his unilateral invasion of a neighboring sovereign country because he does not allow freedom of the press in his own country?

"and that can’t be bad for Russia" [the best fo both worlds]......In this context I AGREE!!

Dear AndriB,
In order to make any statements or conclusions like that one should first study the subject otherwise your words will be nothing but slogans and self-suggestion. And also use correct wording. One remark: who told you that there is a service called KGB in Russia? Pls study the issue! Or you think all Russians live in Kremlin with bears, vodka, KGB and balalaikas?

Here's a quick answer to all this crap that is happening in Georgia. Russia has opened the worlds eyes on purpose to be respected. Moscow does not fear a Cold War. The Russians want a War as big as WW3. They want it and they will push to make it happen. First off is that Putin is spreading lies about how Americans started the issue in Georgia. It''s Putin's way to make the Cold War start with blaming America for starting the whole Cold War. You have to understand that Putin wants to make history before he dies. He will make his name stick forever by starting WW3. But his military looks weak and sloppy. Putin men have no protection and Putin doesn't care about his citizens. So America will show Russia that they can not win a war by murdering 1000's and trying to lie about who started it. Rusia will lose a war with the USA. Quick. But Putin will launch Nuclear Missiles towards American soil if he has to. That's the kind of history Putin wants to make. Putin has his bunkers to hide in before he launches the missiles. So he will do this before he dies. He played Bush like a puppet for 8 years so he could start all this now. So just watch what he will do next and next. Say your prayers!

And my first comment, at 30th august, was:
"
In advance I ask to excuse for my English.

In given clause the sense of words of Putin completely is deformed. If citizens of the USA will look video of the given interview, it is a lot of from told it will appear only personal opinion of the one who wrote this clause. Thus I advise to look all record, instead of обрывки which for you will mount. In Russia of interview showed without uniform break. That is during record there should not be breakages of shooting.

Americans, Europeans! Look at Russian normal eyes. Yes, we are impulsive, emotional, but name though one Russian which you know which has told to you, that you bad and we do not wish to communicate. I can tell at once, that Russian not so far send away in the politician, therefore eloquently to say lies and leave from answers we have not learned. In Russia it is accepted to speak all in eyes directly. We and now have made it! And you again copy all at the sight from within (at a sight of the government of your countries). What for? You are angry with Russia? Envy? Can, be afraid? You, probably, at once will tell "no", "no", "no". So time between us is not present barrier, what for to try to offend another.

Personally I Russian. Sometimes it is a pity to me, that the West has rotted through in political prostitution and a pursuit of money. I looked attack of armies Georgia in the first night and read your site simultaneously. Horror, war has begun! And at you on a site the world and the order, as in a fairy tale. And after city have destroyed, you write, that Russia unexpectedly attacked Georgia. Where the truth? Where fast reaction to world news? Where your democracy with its protection of the human rights and freedom? Or georgians are worthy to live in Georgia, and here others in their territory (as you considered earlier) cannot live there. Notice, in Russia any Georgian have not touched. And in their Russia of more one million lives. We understand them, we understand, that they did not want it. Why you do not wish to understand Russia? We did not want it precisely! At us each woman for each guy of the victim suffered as for own son. On mum saw, how tears flew, when showed in hospital of wounded men and killed. In clause write about that did not start up you in a zone of the conflict. And you asked? Why did not write, what you do not start up? Why have not lifted this question on the TV in the beginning of aggression Georgia? Why did not speak, what to you refuse in interview to the president and the prime minister? The answer can be two. Or you such modest also did not wish to speak, that in Russia all is closed for you, or you say lies also wished to show nothing.

"

Again the second comment have removed. I write again.

" You (Americans and Europeans) all over again open eyes on occuring events! Condemn Russia? Who from you has helped S.Ossetia and Abhazia? You only saakashvili have helped with performances on TV. And on us a heap of a dirt have poured out. You – are morally defective (some of you). Russia already has constructed anew the whole city by a life while you think who is right. America востановила in Iraq though something? In the Europe though someone has helped to adjust a life in Afghanistan? The answer one: no. And we can and we build anew that others pull down.

The first that was made by your leaders – have told that Russia has attacked on georgia. Who from you and now so thinks are deprived common sense. Think not of Russian, and about the education and values.

P.S.: Disappointed in the Europe and the USA "

August, 8. Tskhinval
Georgian soldiers shoot at civilian objects and buildings in South Ossetia for fun .
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=97a_1220479575

"Moderator"? MANIPULATOR.

Hah! That really made me think – thanks!

Hah! That really made me laugh – thanks!