To the editor:

I am not normally suspicious when reading news articles where our country becomes involved in international intrigue. However, the recent alarming news of Russia’s “invasion” of neighboring Georgia has serious implications beyond the obvious war scare. With the background of the presidential elections looming soon, possible ulterior motives are present – especially considering the propensities of Bush, Cheney and Rove to aid the cause of John McCain, who is assumed to profit from a war threat and be more electable.

Most news articles have been straightforward: Russia invaded Georgia. Georgia has a population of 4 million people, so it’s not a real contest. However, the U.S. has a political and monetary interest there. We have announced a $1 billion grant to Georgia to rebuild. We also hope to enroll Georgia in NATO along with other former Soviet client states. This includes installing a missile defense in Poland. These actions are hostile to Russia, but valuable to the Republicans’ effort to remain in power.

I also understand that Russia has had a military presence in South Ossetia since 1990 to protect that territory’s Russian population, which comprises 90 percent of that population. Georgia was rumored to be the initial aggressor in this action. Georgia is emboldened against Russia by the backing of the USA. Lots of conspiracy theories!

Richard M. Hassur,
Lawrence