Monday, August 11, 2008

What's behind the Russian-Georgian Conflict

U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney is quoted in this article posted on CNNMoney.com a stating, "Russian aggression must not go unanswered." That is not surprising given that Georgia is a U.S. ally, and given that the U.S. has an interest in stability and humanitarian issues. But, keep in mind as you watch the terrible pictures from the region that both Russia and the U.S. have another interest in the region.

Here's why you care: CNN gets it right with this headline: "Oil jumps on Russia-Georgia conflict." That's right oil distribution will be disrupted because of the conflict. It is why Russia cares. It is why the stock market cares. Read this article and then observe the statements from all parties through the lens of not just diplomacy but economics.