Ivanov: Time is Ripe for Meeting between Tbilisi and Tskhinvali Leaderships

Speaking to the Russian Izvestiya daily, Secretary of the Russian Security Council Igor Ivanov stated that the time is ripe for a meeting between the leadership of Tbilisi and Tskhinvali. Ivanov ruled out the possibility of a “major war” in South Ossetia, but said that politicians from both sides must “engage in a dialogue on various issues” to avoid dire consequences.

Ivanov also stated that in the event that the military conflict should flare up, Russia would send its troops to South Ossetia “only under a UN Security Council mandate”.

When asked if he forsees the possiblity of South Ossetia joining Russia, Ivanov responded: “Theoretically, it is impossible to rule out anything in life. But currenly I do not clearly see how this is feasible, taking into acocunt both the Russian and Georgian legislation. Our task today is not to discuss hypothetical plans but solve the practical issues that will help restore normal, peaceful life in the region [of South Ossetia].”

This post is also available in: ქართული (Georgian) Русский (Russian)