August 10, 2008
Posted: 09:28 AM ET

Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili spoke with both U.S. presidential candidates on Saturday.
Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili spoke with both U.S. presidential candidates on Saturday.

(CNN) – John McCain and Barack Obama both spoke to Georgia's president Saturday and continued to call for an end to Russia's bombing of the former Soviet republic.

Both candidates pressed for recognition of Georgia's sovereignty pushed for diplomacy in the conflict.

"For many years, I have warned against Russian actions that undermine the sovereignty of its neighbors," said McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, on Saturday. "Unfortunately, we have seen in recent days Russia demonstrate that these concerns were well-founded."

Obama also condemned "the violation of Georgia's sovereignty" and called for "an immediate ceasefire."

"Russia must stop its bombing campaign, cease flights of Russian aircraft in Georgian airspace, and withdraw its ground forces from Georgia," Obama said.

McCain said he has spoken to Georgian President Saakashvili twice since the conflict began. "It is clear the situation is dire … I again call on the government of Russia to immediately and unconditionally withdraw its forces from the territory of Georgia."

He called the conflict a "threat to Euro-Atlantic security," and supported attempts by Western powers — including the United States, the European Union, and NATO — to broker a ceasefire.

Obama is receiving breifings om the situation while on vacation in Hawaii. He also spoke with Saakashvili, and in a statement afterwards direct talks between Russia and Georgia are necessary.

"Diplomats at the highest levels from the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations must become directly involved in mediating this military conflict and beginning a process to resolve the political disputes over the territories of South Ossetia and Abkhazia," he said. "A genuinely neutral mediator — not the Russian government — must begin a process of negotiations immediately."

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


gq   August 10th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

At least they see eye to eye on this matter.

kat   August 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

It`s very interesting to watch CNN talking about Russian troops invaiding Georgia and at the same time showing how Georgian army is bombing civilians. No wonder americans think russians are so cruel. But as russian i can`t even beleive that such thing is even going on. I mean Georgia has always been our friend, i can`t understand why this Saakashvili started all that. especially on the first days of the olympic games

The Iraq war IS legal   August 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

And to further emphasize his knowledge of foreign policy, Obama flew to Atlanta for a face to face meeting…………

Griff   August 10th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Don't worry Mister.. Enough rope, and Russia will hang itself…
They are surrounded by little countries, who still feel the "Pain" from Communist Russia…

tom, boston   August 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

this guy is a US-trained lawyer. what a surprise.

keith proctor   August 10th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I think McCain and Obama greatly overstepped their bounds on this one.

Georgia is at war with Russia — not exactly a good time to make competing political calls to a leader on the other side of the world who has more important things to do than be a prop for campaign news fodder.

grant   August 10th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

The idiot Mikhail Saakashvili started this mess by shelling civilians and killing an estimated 1,400. Where is the condemnation from our western leaders?

Wendy   August 10th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

If McCain the war monger had his way he would send troops.

Ted van Tol   August 10th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

If you ask me, Barack Obama will be a good diplomat advising
the Rusian and the Georgien leader. And I am realy sure they will listen to him. Barack is a man who can bring peace in this world.
I realy do not understan why there is so many doubt on his experience. With all the issues of the last year it is clear the
Barack has the right judgement.
McCain comes always later with more or less the seem ideas.
Stil Barack has just 5 points lead on McCain.
Barack can do everyting but I think the only chance to become the next President is to turn white!

Europe for Obama
With love from the Netherlands

Save Us!   August 10th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Im sure all Johnny McSurge talked about was whats the most effective way to start World War III.

The cradle of war   August 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

It's back for sure; whether it proves to be the 'hot' or 'cold' version remains the only unanswerd question. WAR is reborn, again.

ex-Republican for Obama   August 10th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

America needs Obama as commander in chief now, not that rich, old,
out -of -touch guy with a huge temper.

Tyler in Raleigh   August 10th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

This is not the US business. We ourselves had a civil war…. we didn't need Russia to tell us how to handle our internal affairs. Should they have told us that the South was a soverign state and threaten us if we tried to unite the US again?

Tennessee   August 10th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Does obama know where Georgia is located on a globe. . .(hint) Atlanta is not the capital.

Anyone but Obama '08

Last Honest Man   August 10th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

I call on Russia to…………give me a break.

I'm still trying to figure out why the wimps at CNN did not print my comments on the EDWARDs deception (husband and wife).

CONSERVATIVE VOTER   August 10th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Mc Cain has been in Washington for 26yrs, yet HIS RESUME IS DEFINITELY NOT IMPRESSIVE.This is his 2nd TIME RUNNING FOR THE PRESIDENCY , YET HE IS HAS NO COMPREHENSIVE PLANS , therefore the BASIS of his campaign is MUD- SLINGING at his opponent. He is JEALOUS of Obama's youth, intelligence, crowd appeal, vision,leadership, judgment and his oratory skills. For someone with all those years in politics he should have leading Obama by double digits, instead he is trailing behind that he has to resort to Juvenille pranks.

obama is the most dangerous man alive   August 10th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Their is something very wrong in this country when 90% of the black people are voting for a candidate just because he's black.They'll say color has nothing to do with it but we know that is a lie.
This country is not ready for a black president because 90% of the black population is so willing to base their vote on nothing more than color. If you really want to see the door open to a really bad situation in this country then vote for obama. He is without a doubt the most dangerous man in America.

DC Insider   August 10th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

McCain advised the President of Georgia not to antagonize Russia into a broader conflict , withdraw Georgian troops from the area under dispute, and recommended they pursue all diplomatic channels through the US Britian France Germany and the UN

Obama suggested to the Georgian President that he should inflate the tire pressure on all his army venhicles to get maximum mileage. He also urged tax cuts to give his economy a boost

Michael   August 10th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Though I agree this is a hugely significant issue and that our presidential candidates need to be intimately aware of its occurence, I am sure the Georgian president has better things to do right now than cater to McCain and Obama's need to look presidential.

obama is the most dangerous man alive   August 10th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

obama, shut up and sit down. Who are you trying to kid? You are such a joke.

DAN   August 10th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

It's true that McCain has been warning us about Russia and Putine for years now while Obama still hasn't held one oversite hearing that he's chairing on Afganistan. Obama talks alot but is a present voter except when he voted for the Bush Chenney energy plan that McCain voted against with Hillary because it gave to much money to the oil companies. He so not the one.

KenM   August 10th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

All Obama has to do is show up for a photo op and all will be well. They will simply cease since the one says so.

Dan   August 10th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

The only reason this is gaining much faster attention by the US than Kosovo did, is because there is oil involved, oil with direct US interests.

Denzelw   August 10th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

as a russian, i must say: the us official view is all but balanced. it looks like all that is driving the us, quite pragmatically, is us' own economic interest, not the humanitarian reality. georgians came in during the night shooting andgrenading the civilians. georgians did not sign peace treaty. georgian president is a puppet for the US. what politician in the right mind would address his nation declaring a war to a superpower in non-native English language. it is doubtful that all people in the country understood first hand what he said. cowardly stupid biased action by a politician who screwed his own country – this is what us politicians are currently officially supporting.

The Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   August 10th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Hey I don't think Mr. Ridge is up for the job. I prefer Mitt Romney or Charlie Crist from Florida for VP

Regardless I will wholeheartedly support either candidate that McCain selects as his VP

Obama is a loser, a flip flopper and can't be trusted.

Hussein Obama is as green as the July Corn in the midwest. Nice to look at, but not ready for prime time.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   August 10th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

So John McCain fully approves of and supports George Bush's unprovoked and illegal attempted conquest and occupation and colonization of oil-rich Iraq, a sovereign nation, yet lectures Russia on its attack of Georgia, a state that had suceded from the Russian union some years back. This is bald-faced hypocrisy at its worst and makes clear he would continue Bush's alienation of America from the world as a "rogue nation" that personifies "do as I say, not as I do…or else".

Farrell, Houston, Tx   August 10th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Sounds like McCain is ready to bomb, bomb, bomb so Russia better take his warning serious because McCain is not interested in Obama's kind of diplomacy.

randy   August 10th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Tough talk john macain.if republicans havent learn the side of tough talk when it comes national security.the should learn it vladimir putin this guy dont talk to talk he works all over it.we need on on president who look tough talks to talk and also work.and that is obama will be the strongest US president he dont talk to much what count is your action.

Larry Tyus   August 10th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

It never amaze me that the US and it allies have the guts to speak out about another country aggression upon another nation but fail to talk about the same types of aggression that they have used against other nations. Let the American people remember that we are at war in to country nations based on lies and falsehood then there is the Jewish nation killing of palestine over land that they have no rights to. Lets see if the US is going to challenge another nation that is just as powerful as we are or will we continue to pick conflicts with lesser nation. Once again we will get the opportunity to see two superpower at odds with each other so this lead to the question of which one will blink my money is on the US blinking first.

Dem   August 10th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

McCain's next "war"

I bet he's super excited!

randy   August 10th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Russians may be thinking that the are powerful and the can do anything to georgia and get away with it well the international community will put them back to the place the were in the 90s.

randy   August 10th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Well we hope that russia need to understand that the USSR is dead and it is not coming back to live.georgia protect your country at all cost.

ALECO1 -----NOKOMIS,FL   August 10th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

JOHN McCAIN SAYS WE SHOULD INVADE RUSSIA AND IRAN.
BOMB BOMB BOMB McCAIN, HE SAYS HE KNOWS HOW TO WIN WARS—THE ONLY PROBLEM, IT MAY TAKE HIM 100 YEARS.

P.S.—TO PAY FOR THESE WARS HE WILL BORROW MORE MONEY FROM CHINA.

I THINK I WILL VOTE FOR OBAMA.

Senator John Magoo   August 10th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

McCain seems to be a international name dropper. For all his rhetoric he has no influence on the situation. Why would he call Georgia twice? Did he forget the first call?

Republicans know how to get elected, they just don't know how to govern.

Shannon   August 10th, 2008 11:56 am ET

I wonder if Obama thinks the state of Georgia is under attack, it's times like this that his inexperience is so obvious.

Leko   August 10th, 2008 11:52 am ET

They talked to Gorgian authorities, they hardly talked to Russian authorities, but they have never talked to South Osetian people who are the real victims in this conflict. Why has not anybody asked opinions of the Osetians, 1600 of whom were killed by the Georgian Army on the first day of the conflict when there were no Russian forces in Georgia?

McWar   August 10th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Although the war in Georgia is condemned by most, John McWar is the only politician so quick to go as far as to say that Russia should be kicked out of the G8 – Not even the United Nations, not Barack Obama not even George Bush is talking this extreme this early. People, you are warned, if McWar becomes the next president be prepared to be at war with almost every country – even Canada for saying the word "eh" too much!

Texas Trail Dog!   August 10th, 2008 11:30 am ET

COULD ANY OF YOU PLEASE TELL ME WHAT THE HELL GOOD DOES IT DO FOR EITHER OF McCAIN AND OBAMA TO SPEAK WITH GEORGIAN PRESIDENT SAAKASHVILI? THEY REPRESENT NOBODY AND WHAT'S MORE IT'S NOT THE GEORGIA PRESIDENT THAT NEEDS TALKING TO IT IS PUTIN OF RUSSIA. STUPID, STUPID, STUPID.

IT'S A DRAW ON SELECTING EITHER McCAIN OR OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT. THEY'RE BOTH IDIOTS.

HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT 08!!!!

bob in LA   August 10th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Since neither is an offical nominee and I think they should stay out if international politics. Obama, back to bodysurfing and McCain, its nap time. Yuo will need your rest to understand how the telegragh wroks.

Matthew   August 10th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Obama is quoted as saying, you know, I spent a few years in another country when I was like 8, so, I think I am more than qualified to, you know, uhh, umm advise you on this.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   August 10th, 2008 11:19 am ET

So John McCain fully approves of and supports George Bush's unprovoked and illegal attempted conquest and occupation and colonization of oil-rich Iraq, a sovereign nation, yet lectures Russia on its attack of Georgia, a state that had suceded from the Russian union some years back. This is bald-faced hypocrisy at its worst and makes clear he would continue Bush's alienation of America from the world.

greenfun   August 10th, 2008 11:17 am ET

I thought BO was in Hawaii while HRC was out campaigning for him. Slacker.

Warning   August 10th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Pleace Stop Bombing Georgia Place :(

PUMA-Jessie   August 10th, 2008 11:13 am ET

I think both these guys should stay out of foreign policy now. What happened to the time old policy that politics stop at the waters edge. They can not speak with authority and commit this nation to any course of action. All they might do is confuse the situation.. On top of that when it comes to foreign policy Obama is dumb as a rock. He is a serial flip flopper and will do or say anything to sway a vote.

len   August 10th, 2008 11:04 am ET

Barack Obama's approach of "talking" with the enemy/adversary proves to be weak because of its results. I agree that all avenues should be used before force. But Obama's "kumbaya" approach is not a strong position before enemies of the character of Hezbollah, Hamas, Islamfacists. The Russians little by little are going back to their style of the old Soviet Union.

Jimmy Carter's style created more problems than any, if any at all, solved situations.

The position is not to be a bully, but to make those who hate the US that we will not stand idle before their threats and actions agains the US and our friends.

Jon Ross   August 10th, 2008 10:59 am ET

The international community no longer takes America seriously when it sees a large number of our citizens supporting and swooning over someone of like Obama who is such a frightening shell. We will see this chaos escalate up until the U.S. election. If Obama wins there will be a world wide meltdown of violence because they know America when no longer defend ifself or its allies.

Andrew   August 10th, 2008 10:56 am ET

Georgia is a known trouble maker, I want my elected officials to stay as far from her as possible

Darryl Miller   August 10th, 2008 10:55 am ET

The real question is what is the " UN" doing as well as other member of the "G-8″. Our current President is playing "Volleyball".

The world leadership at it's finest..

Sarah   August 10th, 2008 10:51 am ET

I'm surprised that CNN posted an article like this without even mentioning that McCain's foreign policy adviser – Randy Scheunemann – was a lobbyist for Georgia for several years and is still a principal at the lobbying firm working for Georgia.

Whether that hurts or helps McCain, shouldn't you at least MENTION it to put his position into perspective?

Democrat No More/San Diego   August 10th, 2008 10:51 am ET

With the latest crisis in the world my vote for McCain is now etched in stone. Obama is too young, too inexperienced and too arrogant to be the leader of our country. What a lost opportunity it was not to have nominated Hillary with Obama as her VP. The White House would have been a democratic for 16 years.

E.C.Coleman   August 10th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Just another Act of Russian Aggression, and the leader is Putin. Don't forget, World, Putin was the director of the KGB. The World has all heard about the transgressions of Russia's KGB, and Putin is still calling the shots.

Alexander   August 10th, 2008 10:48 am ET

People! Do not trust the TV! CNN and BBC say lies! Georgians kills women and children! The Georgian terrorist army continues aggression against South Ossetia. The Georgian soldiers have killed 2.000 Ossetic peace inhabitants. The Russian Federation evacuates peace citizens from South Ossetia and protects Ossetic cities from criminal Georgian attacks.

Sergei   August 10th, 2008 10:45 am ET

Tskhinvali, the capital of South Ossetia, lay in smoldering ruins Sunday not after three days of fighting between Georgian troops and Russian forces but after the georgian militarists levelling the town with multiple rocket launchers and killed more then 2000 ossetins.

it is not the best way to integrate the people back.Unless you only want a clean and ploughed land plot and no Osetians on it.
This time Russia was left with no choice

Georgians keep on killing women, children and old people, they killed an old women, hit her with tank, she was running away. At the same time Georgian authorites dont want to get back to parley. Georgoan soldiers gun innocent people when they are trying to get out of basements where they are more than 3 days without water and food. Russia is trying to help people with medicine and food, but georgian guns our mission.

onemom   August 10th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Are all U.S. Senators receiving these types of briefings? If not, then why are McCain and Obama involved? They are presumptive candidates for the Presidency … neither of them is President (last I checked).

Tammie from Cleveland,Ohio   August 10th, 2008 10:41 am ET

I can understand why McCain would be talking to the President,
but is Obama?? He dosen't know diddley Squat about foreign affairs.

ben   August 10th, 2008 10:39 am ET

This is the reason we are so hated in this world. Why do we think we have( our govt. not us mere citizens ) the right to dictate to the world what they must or must not do? Since when have we become dictators of the entire world. I say if Russia wants to invade Georgia let them. I am sure they feel it is in their best interest to do so. Nobody tells us we must lift the embargo over Cuba! Why is it that at one time, we had three of the worst evil dictators in the world right here in our back yard and we did not lift a finger to stop them. We did not stop Trujillo in the dominican republic, Batista in cuba, Papa doc duvalier in haiti. Perhaps Russia feels threatened by Georgia, Who knows? We only get the slanted news from one side.

Hillary voter for McCain   August 10th, 2008 10:38 am ET

McCain is a courageous leader, while Obama is a weak follower and NOT ready to lead….John McCain for President! Country First…..

Mike   August 10th, 2008 10:33 am ET

So McCain says that the situation threatens NATO, and thus tells the Russians that more is at stake here than just Georgia.

Obama says Russia and Georgia need to talk.

Looks like Obama's future Secretary of State is going to be Oprah.

The Obama joke continues….

manana georgiani   August 10th, 2008 10:32 am ET

whay Russens have to invade wholl world? if USA and NATO will not help to defend Geogias Democracy, Putin will soon Putin military bases under foots of USA.

Mr Republican   August 10th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Hopefully we will take our own advice and come home from Iraq. Too bad the aticle doesn't mention the oil/gas pipeline that runs through this territory. This is info that was conviently left out for some reason.

Cherie   August 10th, 2008 10:31 am ET

None of this would have happened if the USA(George Bush) had not taken the law into his own hands, invaded a country and taken his eye off the international theater. He has made us look like fools. Now the proof is here in Suskinds book. It has also been verified by Conservative papers. We have to regain intl standing again and Obama clearly has the ability to interact as a diplomat. Right now McCain can only use his cell phone per permission of the campaign. They found out he has no discipline-do we want to babysit another president that can do even more harm.

bob   August 10th, 2008 10:30 am ET

i think both MCCain and Obama are very naive if they think they can talk to Russia like a small country i think they have to be very care full not to interfere with any hard word or confront Russia wrongly I think this is not our business to tell the other world leaders how to taking care of they on things i want them to back off because i didn't want to see any American forces fighting in this war let's take care our own business

Rocky   August 10th, 2008 10:30 am ET

I agree with both candidates stance on this but I think they need to remember they are not the President.

Mario, Streamwood IL   August 10th, 2008 10:30 am ET

I hope the pacifists would see how important it is to have a strong military force, to be able to defend and deter against aggressors.

i also hope that they would learn that just because they believe in peace does not mean any aggressors will respect their views.

since adam and eve, there has always been aggression. and it's always been the weak and the meek who are conquered, killed, and raped.

as we speak, there is another terrorist, dictator, criminal, or devil being born. it does not have to be a lot of evil people…just one hitler, one stalin, one osama…charismatic enough to lead his/her followers to such atrocities as to wreak havoc and bring death upon thousands.

history will repeat itself for as long as mankind exists.

John Howell   August 10th, 2008 10:23 am ET

As a military officer I am definitely interested in a country protecting its borders and promoting the power of NATO. My concern is this: Why isn't anyone speaking about the fact that Georgia made an artillery strike on a civilian neighborhood? Even if there were Russians and separatists present in the disputed sector shooting at Georgians, isn't using artillery and shelling a civilian area an abomination? Match violent force with like violent force proportionate to the threat, type and degree.
I disagreed with the disportionate Russian response and also disagree with the disportionate initial Georgian response that started the entire incident. No goverment has the right to murder its citizens. I am aware of the racist Georgian Campaign "Georgia for Georgians" and want to know why no one is discussing the event that may draw the United States into a world war. This first heavy strike in a civilian area is not an action that any NATO country would attempt. What about the civilians that were killed? Does anyone care about them? Where is the outrage or is this just politics as usual? Russia needs to stop meddling in the affairs of sovereign countries and Georgia needs to stop murdering its citizens and promulgating racist policies.
CPT United States Army

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   August 10th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Perhaps President Saakashvili can get McBush to tell us when Cindy McBush will release her tax statements and how McBush got into flight school so quickly ahead of many more qualified graduates?

MLH   August 10th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Watching CNN on Friday night, one would have thought that the only newsworthy item was a sad little man's extra marital affair. I am heartened to think that both presidential candidates appear to have spent more time on the situation in Europe than on the issue of John Edwards.

The Observer   August 10th, 2008 10:19 am ET

= = = So, Bush wants Russia to stop the bombing of a break-away country/state or province. hmmmmm. What a Jo, Jo. When he invaded the sovereign Iraq and starting an illegal war, does “Shock and Awe” sound familiar?

duhhhh   August 10th, 2008 10:18 am ET

did McCain also speak to the German President Putin?

Watching from the sidelines   August 10th, 2008 10:17 am ET

cool, what shall we do McMoron ?
Bomb Russia ? well, u know Russia aint no Iraq and most probably, the world will cease to exist.

El Kababa   August 10th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Russia is still ruled by Soviet trained thinkers. The Russians are tough and merciless. They are a very intimidating force in this world and they are only going to become stronger as the rebuild their economy. The Russian social model, inherited from the days of the Czars, is to have a very small very powerful very wealthy elite governing a nation of very poor, powerless, serfs.

America is powerless to deal with new problems because our military is stretched to the breaking point, their equipment is barely sufficient to serve the demands of the occupation in Iraq, the budget is hopelessly in the red, and the national credit cards (the national debt) are maxed out – thanks to the Conservative leadership most of us voted for so many times.

Eastern powers – Russia, China, S. Korea, and India are on the rise. The United States is on the decline – again thanks to Conservative Leaders and naive Conservative voters.

In short, Russia can do as it pleases.

JK Ashburn, VA   August 10th, 2008 10:14 am ET

How narcissistic can this get? The guy is literally fighting to keep his country alive and the two dufuses running for president bug him with nothing more than a useless audio-photo op. I am sure Putin is wetting his pants with worry about Obama's strong words. Oh brother!

Peter   August 10th, 2008 10:14 am ET

oh great, if McWar is president Russia is going to be our enemy #1

J.C.   August 10th, 2008 10:14 am ET

It's easier to talk with Georgian President than Putin, who is obviously in charge.

Which of the two will be the better candidate to handle such conflicts any time? Either will probably do a good job.

What I don't understand is why Obama doesn't want to debate McCain if he is so smart and effective with words. How much longer do we have to wait for a debate? The longer he waits, the less he can show us – undecided.

VON BISMARK,Vienna.   August 10th, 2008 10:12 am ET

mcSHAME ,suddenly territorial sovereignty is now important to Georgia but not Iraq? Can you tell the world why Russia should withdraw from Georgia but not the USA from Iraq.Are you different from you clon Bush? The Russian have at least a justification.The US? Innoncents in Iraq?

SENILE WAR MONGER!

jimmy   August 10th, 2008 10:08 am ET

RUSSIA= SOVIET STYLE COMMUNIST DICTATORSHIP !!!!!

Upon Further Review   August 10th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Looks like a case of "'monkey see monkey do".they might be saying ,"If the USA can go around and be a bully ,why cant we?We might get mad too, if say, Florida broke away from the Union and joined Cuba,we wouldnt be real happy either.

gary   August 10th, 2008 10:03 am ET

obamma and mcbush are such cowardly weasels. russia is defending themselves against georgian repression of the sout oessilan people. you weasels among weasels. this country is so full of cowards it digusts me to no end.

Karen-phoenix   August 10th, 2008 9:58 am ET

Read this again! Obama is for diplomacy. A neutral mediator!!! McCain just condems Russia with solution. McCain LIKES war!! WE can not justify anymore wars!!!!!!! Go Obama! This is a BIG difference between the two men. I choose Peace and diplomacy. McCain will get our kids into a draft no matter what and he is NOT getting my grandchildren!!

Jimmy P   August 10th, 2008 9:54 am ET

The West should take note of how Russia deals with such situations. There is no such thing as proportional response when it comes to warfare. Whether they were right or wrong for going in to Gerogia, they did it in the correct manner. Because of proportional response, we may be in Iraq 10 years, if not longer. The West is a paper tiger, and non-western nations are fully aware of this. In addition, it's nice to see how we back up our allies! Abolish the U.N.!!!!

Snerdboy says   August 10th, 2008 9:49 am ET

I laugh at you old man from town.

The Clear Thinking Independent   August 10th, 2008 9:49 am ET

There is currently one president of the United States and his name is neither John McCain or Barack Obama.

I don't have much confidence in George Bush but he is the CHIEF EXECUTIVE … he holds the OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENCY of the United States and I do have confidence in that institution, combined with our counstituional system.

Obama and McCain will recieve a watered-down-version of the foriegn affairs reports that Bush gets on this conflict. However, neither of these two "candidates" should be acting like they are the president and be injecting themselves into the tactical execution of this conflict or it's resolution.

John McCain can properly claim he has held an general "anti-Russian" stance. He can not claim he has provided any pro-active foreign policy stances or guidance about Georgia or the pre-existing tensions.

The Russian's apparently fear Georgia becoming more closely aligned with the west, specifically NATO. We should probably further than alignment in the diplomacy that has to follow. It could put a damper on future aggression by Russia.

We can not achieve this though with a belligerent tone. Although the circumstances are not exactly the same, we should expect Russia to sort of view in the same manner we viewed the USSR's influence on Cuba in the 50's & 60's. Our beliegerence will only frighten them. We don't need to frighten them to bring Georgia into NATO.

Chicago Red   August 10th, 2008 9:39 am ET

CNN) – John McCain and Barack Obama both spoke to Georgia's president Saturday and continued to call for an end to Russia's bombing of the former Soviet republic. President Bush is Incharge and should be respected and making the calls !!!

.

JIM   August 10th, 2008 9:37 am ET

Why would Obama need updates while on vacation. He's not the President but in trying to act like it, is just getting in the way of President Bush. Both candidates need to take a back seat to interfering with a unified voice from Bush; he is the commander in chief.

Bill Dennis   August 10th, 2008 2:20 am ET

Now that John Edward has confessed that he had an affair. It's time
the the News Media check out John Mcain and his true connection to VIkie Iseman.

There was a time when the News Media investagated news leads, not just read the teleprompter every night.

Mariam   August 10th, 2008 2:16 am ET

Hi!
I am amazed to read and watch CNN materials on the situation in Georgia. The information is presented extremely white and black.

Georgia is portrayed as a victim of "Russian aggression" but there is absolutely no information on how this whole thing has started, therefore I choose not to watch your channel as it is very opinionated and biased (against Russia).

Rob indetroit   August 10th, 2008 1:49 am ET

With all do respect Georgia attacked Russian forces first russia is defending itself, by the way we can't talk ,iraq didn't do anything to us and all we did was cover throw their goverment kill their president and his two son's along with his 14 year old Grandson. we need to mind our own business, ooh! i bet the war hawkes don't want any part of russia.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

K of TX   August 10th, 2008 1:36 am ET

i really do find the "I told you guys this was coming and I spoke with them more times than Obama" political tone annoying coming from McCain. The man would try to politicize ANYTHING to score points.

One Question:

Are you better off now than you were 8yrs. ago?
McCain seems to think so…

Obama '08

Mark Ramsey MD Milwaukee WI   August 10th, 2008 1:18 am ET

Time to get our troops and our treasure out of Iraq. The Russians are on the move again.

Jeanine G   August 10th, 2008 1:13 am ET

to prove how "tough" he is McCain would spark a new cold war. For votes he would close the iron curtain again and stand around and talk big and strike poses.

White 53 year old Obama Mama   August 10th, 2008 1:09 am ET

McCain will want us to get involved in another war – the warmonger that he is.

P.S. When will we hear about McCain's affair with the lobbyiest? Is there a media coverup again?

JWK   August 10th, 2008 1:05 am ET

John McCain and Barack Obama should issue a tough joint statement on this matter, so that Russia is warned that America will stand with Georgia whoever wins this election. For the love of God, whatever happened to the leader of the Free World?

all do respect to McCain and Obama   August 10th, 2008 12:45 am ET

But they have no business talking with the Georgian President.

They are US Senators. Unless they are part of a commission designed to talk with him, then so be it.

Let Bush talk with him. He is the President, whether many of you like it or not. This is not some issue for a presidential candidate to stick his head into right now.

2,500 dead with more to come, but it's okay! I can capitalize on the platform and try to get elected!

Let Georgia, Russia, the world leaders, along with NATO and the UN work this out….

Speaking of NATO, you guys at CNN do realize that this is what this war is about right? Georgia is a democracy wanting to join NATO. Russia sees this as a threat and will use her realm of influence to crush any competition… especially since 4% of the world's oil comes from a Georgian pipeline.

CB   August 10th, 2008 12:45 am ET

We can clearly see from the responses what kind of leadership each will offer internationally. McCain will see a "threat" everywhere and escalate the situation by calling for "unconditional" withdrawls. Obama will see that the situation can be resolved and looks for mediation BEFORE it escalates into something irreversible.

McCain is to quick to make things escalate. A scary thought if he becomes President.

Ken   August 10th, 2008 12:40 am ET

They shouldn't even be involved or be talking about this.

Abby   August 10th, 2008 12:33 am ET

Keep obama away from any REAL issues/problems – this FRAUD is not qualified to lead our country – let alone advise another country.
Obama is NOT qualified and will never be elected.
We can TRUST McCain – and he is NOT on vacation – again.

Keeping An Open Mind   August 10th, 2008 12:29 am ET

So this is what an Obama presidency would be like? Him lounging around in Hawaii while there is a crisis going on that could erupt into a full blown war? He is showing he is not fit to be commander in chief

cal   August 10th, 2008 12:19 am ET

this election is waaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy too long.

why are either of them speaking to the president of georgia?
neither of them is the president, yet.

Len Clark   August 10th, 2008 12:10 am ET

Talk about hypocracy. Maybe they both should look at country of Iraq
which they invaded. They might want to re-think their wording.

denise   August 10th, 2008 12:08 am ET

Is this a preview of how Obama will handle foreign issues…?
Vacationing in Hawaii and briefings from his staff?
THIS is a REAL situation where Obama could shine but choses instead to relax with the family …..Big Boo Boo in my eyes.

NPA   August 10th, 2008 12:05 am ET

So the Obama camp has allowed the McCain camp to successfully change the debate from the Iraq war to the surge? Over and over, the evidence is showing that the McCain camp is intellectually more capable than the Obama camp, though for the candidates themselves this is the direct opposite. Perhaps Obama should attend those townhall meetings with McCain after all. This debacle reminds me of Bush's machine telling the American people how down is up and up is down. It is fullish to resort to quotes such as "I hope the American people is smarter than that." It is the job of the candidates to convince the people. The Obama camp is losing on mental capacity.

Raymond Duke   August 9th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

Neither one of these yahoo's should be saying nothing to the Georgian president. Neither one should be involved trying to make policy or promises for the United States. George Bush is the president until he leaves. Only him or his spokesman should be sending the message.

lila   August 9th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

And I say that in reply to the whole statements that McCain vs Obama gave. CNN gave surgepants a cover-up with this ticker.

aware   August 9th, 2008 11:41 pm ET

Give it up Obama! You have no right to speak to this issue! :(

Victoria Nikolov   August 9th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

When did TV news ever put the Democrat candidate's website on the News website? That is not allowed , to push one candidate over an other. You are supposed to report the news, not make it. From now on, you must adhere to That means, No fund raising ads for Obama. Isn't that unethical. or website access to his website.

DR. YES   August 9th, 2008 11:20 pm ET

i wish obama were president.bush/mccain are scary in these situations.

lila   August 9th, 2008 11:14 pm ET

McCain has an overcompensating napoleon complex. McCain reacted like an old short man who wants to be seventeen again. McCain is risky. Obama gave the mature reply that reflected other world leaders on an international stage. McCain, the overcompensating scrappy-doo would start world war 3. McCain would start a war with both Iran and Russia.

Marge Hibbing Mn   August 9th, 2008 11:13 pm ET

Even tho obama is a democrat as opposed to McCain the republican I don't see how either one of them could have the nerve to try to tell Russia or Georgia presidents what to do. With the way bush invaded Iraq and turned it into a killing vehicle for Americans as well as Iraqi the best thing we could do is SHUT UP. By trying to mediate the fighting our presence would only inflame it.

Luke   August 9th, 2008 11:11 pm ET

Has Russia really done anything wrong here? I see a lot of condemnation from the west for what really appears to be legitimate peacekeeping. The Georgians have been hitting Tskhinvali pretty hard

s.positive   August 9th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

MCbush, you see why having the common sense to work and solve problems evenwith an enemy like Russia, makes more sense, Would you bomb now or talk with them? Talk about so called experience…

California Gold   August 9th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

McCain sounds more and more like a dictator.

Chicago Red   August 9th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

CNN) — John McCain and Barack Obama both spoke to Georgia's president Saturday and continued to call for an end to Russia's bombing of the former Soviet republic. What About George did he talk
with anyone he still the President
***Russia must stop its bombing campaign***I wonder if Russia said any thing to USA about Iraq ****

JB illinois   August 9th, 2008 10:47 pm ET

And our president is enjoying the olympics, he has no conscience, and war belongs to men of greed, arrogance and no conscience.

Dennis   August 9th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Not only is it unfortunate that the Georgians and Russians went to war on the start of the Olympics, but John McCain choose tonight's Olympic coverage to run negative attack ads on Obama. Totally tasteless politics from McCain, totally inappropriate tone for an event celebrating peace and the human spirit of goodness. McCain, no shame whatsoever.

jimmy   August 9th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

PRESIDENT BUSH WAS QUICK TO CONDEMN THE ATTACK AND URGED BOTH SIDES TO EXERCISE RESTRAINT AND QUIT THE FIGHTING.. NEVERTHELL, THE DAMAGE HAS BEEN DONE AND S. OSSETIA OF GEORGIA WILL NOW BE UNDER RUSSIAN CONTROL.
THIS IS THE SORT OF INTIMIDATION THAT RUSSIA IS PURSUING
TO WARN OTHER ANTI RUSSIAN NATIONS JUST HOW EASY RUSSIA WILL USE ITS ARMED FORCES AT THE SLITHEST EXCUSE AND WITHOUT PROVOCATION. IMAGINE ALL THE NATIONS NEAR OR AROUND RUSSIA WHO HAVE IMMIGRANT RUSSIANS.????

TN for Obama   August 9th, 2008 10:36 pm ET

McSame Ole Thing: The world does NOT need your type of help. Remember "Bomb, Bomb, Bomb…..Bomb, Bomb Iran." NOW you want to be taken seriously? We know you like to "Have a little fun…." but we don't want a president with your type of humor.

mk   August 9th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

One more reason not to vote for Obama. Who would want him as President in this situation? Not me.

jimmy   August 9th, 2008 10:33 pm ET

CORRECTION: GEORGIA HAS A RIGHT TO SUPPRESS REBELLION IN ONE OF ITS PROVINCES.!!!!

aaaaa   August 9th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

mccain doesnt need to talk because he has no plans. Obama cant stop Russia but hwe will do his best to prevent future wars when he takes office.

MD   August 9th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Neither of these two are the president of the US yet. Both must stay out of the situation, and let the government handle it.

Bill   August 9th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Can someone explain again, why did Georgia strike Russia first? before we decide we need to win this war too

Rabblerouser   August 9th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Blah, blah, blah – does BO ever say anything that has any substance?

Charlotte   August 9th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

This is a major concern for all of us. We cannot afford to do battle for others, we would be in dire straights if we attempt to intercede.

ANDROLOMA, Commerce City, Colorado   August 9th, 2008 10:06 pm ET

Doesn't Chechnya deserve a little sovereignty too?

David Goldman for OBAMA   August 9th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

WOW MCSCUMBAG WANTS RUSSIA TO RESPECT

THE SOVEREIGNTY OF IT'S NEIGHBORS?

I GUESS WE'RE OK WITH THE IRAQ WAR,

BECAUSE IRAQ IS NOT OUR NEIGHBOR?

MCSENILE HAS A DIFFERENT SCAM FOR EVERY MINUTE.

Loving Obama   August 9th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Let's hope McCain does not decide to bomb Russia!

Renata Sanders   August 9th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

With all due respect, please note how the writer has disproportionally written more about Obama's briefing of the situation while on vacation and has finished the essay with a whole paragraph about Obama's position. That is such a Pro-Obama stand. And I am telling you this not as an uneducated , lay person but as a psychiatrist. You can infer from the article an almost unconcious, ego-syntonic preference for the democratic candidate. In case this doesn't get published, please forward my comments to the journalist .
Renata Sanders, MD

bill for barack   August 9th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

Did McLame ask if things were o.k. in Atlanta /

MM   August 9th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Why are either one talking to the Georgia President? Neither one is the president. They shouldn't be mixing campaign politics in with the Georgia crisis.

Tyler   August 9th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

I am behind Russia on this….Georgia is the aggressor. I guess for both candidates, sovereignty is only an issue when US allies are invaded…but when US or its allies violate sovereignty of other nations…its okay. Where is the candidates outrage on the brutal bombing by Georgian troops on South Ossetia's capital???? I hope Russia teaches little Georgia a good lesson.

I will not be voting…both candidates foreign policies are the same, except for the issue with Iraq and negotiations with Iran, small details.

ex-Republican for Obama   August 9th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

America needs Obama as commander-in-chief, not that old guy who doesn't even work weekends.

Turnabout is Fair Play   August 9th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Spoken like the true president we already know you are President Obama. McCain would instantly want to start bombing Russia with our long range Stealth bombers and then you could kiss our @sses goodbye.

Veteran for Obama   August 9th, 2008 9:38 pm ET

If McCain were President he would attack Russia. He loves war. The problem is McCain would send all of the remaining troops we have in America and there would be nobody left to protect our homeland.

McCain loves war. He is lucky the Vietcong saved his life so he is able to go around and spout off hate and lies today. He would have died if the Vietcong did not save his life in the first place.

Annie   August 9th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Obama has ZER0 experience and should not be speaking on behalf of the U.S.

NO O B A M A

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