No EU Monitors In South Ossetia And Abkhazia

Bernard Kouchner (L) speaks at a press conference with Sergei Lavrov (Photo AFP)

Russia: No EU Monitors in Georgian Breakaway
Territories -- Voice Of America

Russia says it opposes the deployment of European Union monitors inside two Georgian breakaway territories that Moscow now recognizes as independent countries.

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov outlined his country's view Tuesday in St. Petersburg, alongside his French counterpart, Bernard Kouchner. Lavrov said security in South Ossetia and a second Georgian breakaway territory, Abkhazia, will be guaranteed by thousands of Russian troops now deployed in the territories.

An EU monitoring mission entered Georgia four weeks ago, as part of a Western push to restore order following a devastating Russian military offensive in August. Moscow said it mounted the incursion in response to Georgian military efforts to regain control of South Ossetia by force.

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Update: Russia opposes EU monitors in Georgia's breakaway provinces -- AFP

Update #2: Georgia denies 'war crimes' claim -- BBC News