Russian Defense Minister told reporters on January 19 that Georgia?s Pankisi gorge represents ?a source of concern? for Russia, RIA Novosti news agency reported.
The Russian Embassy in Georgia issued a statement on January 17 noting that a ?terrorism threat coming from Georgia? due to the presence of Chechen militants there, ?is still maintained and represents a serous challenge for the security of Russia, as well as for Georgia.?
On January 13 Russian Defense Minister said that Russia is ready to hit pre-emptively on terrorist bases outside the Russian territory.