Abkhazia violence raises fears of “second front”

Fighting is now reported in the Georgian breakaway territory of Abkhazia. Conflict in the disputed Kodori gorge could open a “second front” in Tbilisi’s battle to retain rebel regions.

Separatists said their forces have launched air strikes on the Georgian-controlled upper part of the gorge and artillery was pounding the area. But Georgia accused Russia, which has a peacekeeping force in Abkhazia, of being behind the attacks. Tbilisi said they have been repelled.

Both pro-Russian regions, South Ossetia and Abkhazia, have unilaterally declared independence from Georgia, waging a long campaign to win international recognition.