Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which are “separatist regions” in Georgia, have been fighting for international recognition as independent entities since 1990s. Both these regions wanted to be a part of Russia. In order to establish peace between Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Russia has long been acting as peacekeeper.

Following the detention of Russian peacekeepers in Abkhazia in June, tension built between Georgia and two enclaves. From August 6, there have been attacks and counter attacks between the Georgian and Russian troops. Moscow accused Georgia’s motive of ethnic cleansing executed by the Tbilisi’s units. On the other hand, Georgia Government accused Russian troops for invading their country.

On August 8, Georgian troops struck South Ossetia to regain control on Tskhinvali, the capital of the region, and to force the Russian troops out of the territory. Since Thursday, more than 1,500 people had died in the conflict. The Georgia-Russia crisis has forced thousands of people to take refuge.

Following the attack, Russia has decided to take preventive measures to guard against Georgian attack on Abkhazia, which is another separatist region in the country. 9,000 paratroopers and 350 armored vehicles are to be deployed in the region to face the Georgian attack.

Tension is building between Georgia and Russia with every passing day. Russian president has declared to help Abkhazia and South Ossetia, as most of the people living there have Russian citizenship. Though UN officials are trying to establish peace in the region, the Georgia-Russia crisis still remains unsolved.