Russia Ignores the West

The dramatic violence of the last few days may have come as a surprise, but the row over South Ossetia go back years - to the break-up of the Soviet Union.

The United States said both sides shared some blame but Russia's use of force had been disproportionate and it must join Georgia's offer of an immediate ceasefire.

Britain urged Russia to respect Georgia's territory, and France warned Russia its relations with Europe could suffer if it did not do so.

Several EU countries criticized Russia for violating Georgia's borders by sending troops in.

But whether Western attempts at mediation will make much difference is uncertain.