After meeting with Medevedev Putin recognized independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia (Video)

Russian president Dmitry Medvedev has informed that he has signed decrees on recognizing of independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and urge other states to follow the example of Russia.

Medvedev stated that Russia supports the idea of the referendum in South Ossetia and Abkhazia. He underlined that back in 1991 Russia allegedly “saved the population of Ossetia and Abkhazia from extermination”.

“The peoples of South Ossetia and Abkhazia have many times expressed support to their independence. We understand that they have as right to decide their fate themselves after what has happened.

They addressed Russia with the request to recognize their independence. Proceeding from the current situation, a decision should be adopted. Considering the free expression of the will by nations…, the UN Statute, OSCE documents, I have signed decrees on the recognition by the Russian Federation of the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. It is the only way to save human lives,” Medvedev said.

Medvedev underlined that the desire of Russia to solve the conflict peacefully had been ignored by Georgia, “which was preparing to the war methodically”, and by the NATO and the EU.

Before making the statement, Medvedev met with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. The spokesperson of the Russian president Natalya Timakova has informed that at the meeting social and political situation in the country was discussed, as well as certain aspects of foreign policy”.

As we have informed, yesterday, August 25, after the decision of the Russian parliament to recognize independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Western countries addressed Russian president Dmitry Medvedev with a request not to recognize these republics.

Besides, German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that she expected Medvedev not to support calls of the State Duma and the Council of Federation and not to recognize independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Recognition of independence greenlights Russian troops’ staying at the territory of Georgia.