Russia has called on the international community to recognise the breakaway Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

The Kremlin acknowledged the two territories one year ago after crushing a Georgian attempt to stamp its authority on the regions. In both South Ossetia and Abkhazia celebrations are taking place to mark the event. The rest of the world, except Nicaragua, still views the territories as Georgian despite Moscow applying strong diplomatic pressure on allies such as Belarus and Kazakhstan. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said: “I don’t regret the decision it’s the correct decision correct in international law it’s right and absolutley necessary and irreversible.” Russia claims its recognition was an attempt to protect its citizens, who split from central Georgian control following the wars in the 1990’s. Georgia sees the Russian move as nothing but a land grab.More about: Anniversary, Independence

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