Russia recognizes South Ossetia, Abkhazia

Analysts say the move is likely to further escalate tensions between Russia and the West.

"I have signed decrees on the recognition by the Russian Federation of the independence of South Ossetia and the independence of Abkhazia," Mr Medvedev said in the announcement.

"That was no easy choice to make, but it is the sole chance of saving people's lives," Mr Medvedev added.

He blamed Georgia for failing to negotiate a peaceful settlement to the problem and called on other states to follow Russia's example.

Basically, this is how it all went:

Russia: "South Ossetia, Abkhazia, you may be free!"
South Ossetia and Abkhazia: "Oh, yeah! We are free! Let's fire in the air!"
Georgia: "Are you crazy? Are you out of your mind?"
Russia: "What did we do?"
Georgia: "This is our land, we are all brothers!"
Russia: "No. We are. Not you."
UK: "Oh, dear. Bloody hell! We warned you!"
USA: "You had no right following our example invading a country and then supporting a breakaway state!"
Germany: "Come on, quick! Georgia and Ukraine, come under NATO:s wing!"
Latvia (one half): "Yeah, go Russia!"
Latvia (other half): "To hell with Russia! Send our Prime Minister to Georgia again!"
Armenia: "Hey, what about Karabakh now?"
Azerbaijan: "Separatists are all the same!"
Sweden: "The Russians are criminals!"
NATO: "Screw Russia's recognition! Russia is an empty spot!"
Russia: "Screw all! We've got no other choice. Oh, and one more thing, screw all!"

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