August 13, 2008
Posted: 08:50 AM ET

From
CNN

Watch the entire interview with President Saakashvili.

(CNN) – Georgian president Mikheil Saakashvili on Wednesday called for John McCain and other American leaders to do more for Georgia in their response to the conflict in his country.

“Yesterday, I heard Sen. McCain say, ‘We are all Georgians now,’” Saakashvili said on CNN’s American Morning. “Well, very nice, you know, very cheering for us to hear that, but OK, it’s time to pass from this. From words to deeds.”

McCain told a crowd in Pennsylvania yesterday that he had called Saakashvili to express solidarity with the people of Georgia, saying: “Today, we are all Georgians.”

McCain’s foreign policy adviser Randy Scheunemann told reporters on the campaign plane Tuesday that McCain’s remark “obviously meant a lot to Saakashvili personally, but more importantly the message it conveyed to the Georgian people in this really, time of unprecedented national emergency.” Scheunemann said McCain and Saakashvili are friends who have speaking daily throughout the crisis.

But Saakashvili said action is more important than rhetoric in the face of “brutal” and “deliberate” Russian violence. He urged the United States to take the lead in installing an international peacekeeping force.

“We should realize what is at stake here for Americans,” he said. “America is losing the whole region.”

“What Americans should do know, first of all, clearly make known their intentions,” he said.

Filed under: John McCain


Sir Geshko   August 13th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Words vs. deeds… isn't that the comparison McCain's campaign was trying to make with Obama?
I love delicious irony. ^_^

Jeff in SF   August 13th, 2008 10:33 am ET

"Going from words to deeds" is what got Georgia into this mess in the first place & even John McCain must know there's no way the US should touch it with a ten-foot pole.

But maybe McCain has never heard that expression about speaking softly & carrying a big stick, or maybe he's got it backwards.

Jimmy   August 13th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Everyone starts to realize what McCain is about: TALK, TALK and more TALK. but NO DEEDS. I wonder what his response is going to be. Well, I guess we all know………..

Arthur Yen   August 13th, 2008 10:32 am ET

McSame/Bush Clone is all talk. He spouts nonsense about how Obama is talk, but he's no different.

Doc   August 13th, 2008 10:32 am ET

EXACTLY.
This is where John Wayne -Mc Cain's big mouth can't chew all that cud his eyes think they see.
We can't help Georgia, and everybody with half a brain knows this so the policy adviser is blowing smoke. And his campaign again shows how ignorant they are in tryin to criticize Barack on the little he said. You don't go yappin at the gums to a big bully who's pounding some little person especially if you can't defend the victim.

"That's not change we can believe in"
OB1 08″

Swampy   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Saakashvili was sold down the river by the current administration, so now that he's in a jam he's turning to his buddy, John "I vote with the President 95% of the time" McCain to turn things around for him? Ain't gonna happen, even if Johnny-boy made it sound as if it would.

The U.S. has no credibility in this matter. Only the Europeans who refused to join in the illegal invasion of Iraq can take the moral high ground here and work toward a resolution.

Yeah, we're all Georgians until it might cost us something — then we're ostriches.

The Main Man in Kentucky   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Also, McCain just lost leads in Tennessee, Alabama, and Florida.

For saying that today, We are all "GEORGIANS".

The Volunteers, Crimson Tide and Gators all disagree with you.

Michael, Lorain, Ohio   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Scheunemann said McCain and Saakashvili are friends

Yeah…right, McCain can't even pronounce his name right, this is laughable!

Hakim to 11 Bravo   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

I completely agree you with everything you said 100%. This shoot-from-the-hip cowboy diplomacy of saber rattling and what is it getting Georgia, nothing. I am glad the Georgian President called out McCain saying hey all these words are fine and dandy but where are the deeds and you will see that McCain has no response. But despite all of that, we have a President and we have not heard a peep out of him since getting back from the olympics on this topic. So once again McCain and Bush are lock step on just sabre rattling and doing nothing and they criticized Obama for having a measured response until more facts from the ground known. Yes this is a perfect example of how McCain will be just like Bush and we need a new direction and someone who can handle crisis, vs. just saying that they jet skiied together. If Obama had said that the media would have been all over him for being elite or whatever. We don't have have enough troops due to the Iraq War to help Georgia and McCain and Bush both know it. I applaud Saakashvili for telling McCain to put up or shut up and that McCain's words mean nothing.

Patrick   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

We only don't have the moral standing to help another country if we choose to not help another country. Our actions in Iraq have nothing to do with other conflicts around the world. If we want to help Georgia we can go help Georgia. It is immoral to sit by and watch a democracy be invaded by another country. Iraq wasn't a democracy; we went in to overthrow a dictator and free a country; Russia is trying to do the exact opposite.

arc, Lugano CH   August 13th, 2008 10:31 am ET

11 Bravo:

I agree with you, well said.

ark   August 13th, 2008 10:30 am ET

too bad for the old horse. the goergian president must have read the minds of millions refusing to be fooled by McCain scary word abt WW111.

vote McC only if we need a war maker. that was his only strenght, nothing else good has ever come through him.

the world need PEACE not WAR please!

tai   August 13th, 2008 10:30 am ET

oo ouch thats gotta hurt for mccain, the georgian president just gave him a verbal slap in the face. Give it up mcsame, america isnt falling for that foregh policy crap that u think u have, your empty double talk express isnt conveying anyone you neocon puppet.

The Main Man in Kentucky   August 13th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Well, John.

I'd say that is a CHECK, by the Georgian President, and you only have one move left.

Putting your queen, squarely, in front of the King.

Mate in ONE, do you wish to resign?

Should have kept your mouth shut and now you have screwed up the remote chance of using this to your favor. If you do nothing, you will be shown as only paying lip service and a phony. If you think of military action, you will be painted as even more of a Hawk that you are.

John wants another Cold War so that he can finally live up to DADDY's Expectations and reputation. I don't want a president with unresolved Daddy Issues.

What's it going to be, John? It's your move. Funny, I won't be surprised when the Crickets start chirping.

Amazing   August 13th, 2008 10:29 am ET

John McCain just put himself between a rock and a hard place. How will he backpeddle out of this one?

writeinhillary08   August 13th, 2008 10:29 am ET

McCain has been calling for the Russian's to be expelled from the G8 for their actions. This is more than Obama can offer, but I'm sure Obama will adopt this position soon and say it was his position all along.

Beverly, NYC   August 13th, 2008 10:29 am ET

I hope the Georgian president isn't holding his breath for action from the US. Our lame decider is enjoying Olympics. He and Mccain can only offer tough talk and no action. How can we slap Russia's hands when we have occupied Iraq for six years without provocation ( no WMD's, or 9/11 connection). Don't we owe money to Russia, China and half the middle east, kind of hard to be tough with a straight face when you owe billions.

Interesting   August 13th, 2008 10:28 am ET

Wasn't it McCain that chided Obama for being all talk, no substance? This is the same thing, especially since he has no power to do anything of substance! Talky, Talky, Talky!

king   August 13th, 2008 10:28 am ET

mccain is a joke! plain and simple

Gerald C, Madison, WI   August 13th, 2008 10:28 am ET

Wait…I thought these guys were Black Sea jet skeeing buddies who speak on a daily basis. And I thought it was Obama who was the man of empty rhetoric?

gman   August 13th, 2008 10:28 am ET

See what happens when you dive head first in to BS. Now what are you going to do? Didn't we see this rerun before…in the lead up to the Iraq war. Will we ever learn or are we doomed to repeat our mistakes.

Obama?   August 13th, 2008 10:27 am ET

Since you are so quick to rush to judgment….what exactly is Obama's plan for Georgia?

Jason L. Hubsch   August 13th, 2008 10:27 am ET

First of all, anyone that adds their own replacement suffix to Mc____ instead of referring to him as McCain is not worth taking seriously.

Secondly, I think this is good news for McCain. It shows that the Georgian President values McCain's words and hopes he acts upon them, whereas there was no mention of Barack Obama from him.

Anonymous   August 13th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Hmmmmm, McCain's top advisor is a lobbyist for the country of Georgia. Naturally, McCain comes down squarely on Georgia's side in this, and now the president of Georgia is making demands for action.

We should probably expect McCain to demand action shortly.

Sane John   August 13th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Oh snap. Somebody called the empty shirt REPUBLICAN candidate on his total lack of substance. And it was the President of Georgia. Ouch.

How about those national security credentials now, eh?

ran   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

We now have a clear example of how mccain will deal with issues and it an't pretty. People we need OBAMA and the DEMOCRATS now more then ever.

17 year old future politician   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

There is no way we are going to take anytype of responsibility in another conflict overseas. The Geogians started it, and now are trying to use the words of one ignorant comment as a way to squeeze America into this conflict. We don't have enough money to defend a country who initially ended the PEACE, and as soon as the conflict began, used force instead of promoting PEACE. McCain's comment about speaking for all Americans was obviously false, and the Geogian president knows that…he just wants to find anyway possible to con us into this conflict.

Anon   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

I hope Sam is right about McCain's bravado being false. But I think McCain is just crazy enough to go to war with Russia if he were President.

Dave in Boston   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Clearly the President of Georgia is not impressed with McCain's "experience," nor does he care that they went jetskiing together two years ago…something that McCain seems very proud of.

Dale, Kentucky   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

So we should support the aggressors?
Georgians were the aggressors here, my guess is it comes down to who will get the profit from the pipeline running through Georgia.

Georgia should stand down and stop their aggressive push.

raw is war   August 13th, 2008 10:25 am ET

if McCain gets elected, there's a good chance we'll end up going to war with someone else (Russia maybe? Iran possibly?). one thing I haven't heard brought up is that if we keep occupations in multiple countries we'll need to expand our forces and resources. now why don't the pundits and speculators talk about the possibility of a draft?

Steve   August 13th, 2008 10:24 am ET

More nonsensical political rambling.

Sometimes I just feel sorry for McCain. He wants to be the President so badly, and he's trying so hard, but he can't seem to do anything right, and he just doesn't have a prayer. Poor guy.

11 Bravo   August 13th, 2008 10:24 am ET

See what this shoot-from-the-hip, cowboy diplomacy gets you? Senator McCain seems to have let his mouth write a check that his can't cash

He is in NO position to commit our over-burdened troops to any kind of action in Georgia

In hindsight? I'd wager he wished he'd have given a more measured and thought-out response to this conflict instead of shooting off his big mouth

JA Cook   August 13th, 2008 10:24 am ET

I'm sure that Saakashvili appreciates that he got to jet-ski with McCain and become close personal friends. Now McCain can save him.

McCain can't pronounce his name but now he can talk tough about Georgia and if Russia doesn't stop, well we'll, we'll…. We'll think of something to do that will make them sorry for bombing or not bombing that oil pipeline.

Alan Boyer   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Well, McCain's jet-skiing buddy just called him out. Ouch! That has got to hurt. McCain must be picking his face up off the floor.

mike in portland   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Winston Churchill, who might be considered the patron saint of neocons, said, "Jaw, jaw is better than war, war". We no longer have the moral standing in the world to intervene in any other country's political fights, much less the soldiers, guns, and money. Senator Obama understands this; McCain chooses to ignore it.

If you want another term of baseless threats and (god forbid) mindless carnage on the world stage, vote for McCain.

SM   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Now who's presuming to be president? I thought Bush was still our president?? Oh, that's right, he's over in China whooping it up. How dare McCain, or Saakashvili, presume that McCain will have anything to say about what America does or does not do! Maybe the Georgian president better start worrying about what President Obama will do—DIPLOMATICALLY!

Tom Swift, Shopton USA   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

`
When McCain said "‘We are all Georgians now…" he was wrong.

Not all.

You all can be Georgian-for-a-day if you want, but count me out.

I am an American.

The correct phrase should have been "[i]some[/i] of us are Georgians now…"

`

Bob Texas   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

According to McCain every conflict in the world and the USA goes to war. Remember we don't talk just fight! A real John Wayne president.

Gerald in Georgia   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Okay McFoot -In-Mouth, just what do you plan to do now? That is why it is very dangerous to elect some one with the same mentality as GW BUSH. They shoot off at the mouth trying to sound tougher than the Dems but no regards to the consequences of "JUST WORDS".
OBAMA08!!
"REAL CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN"

Texas Trail Dog!   August 13th, 2008 10:23 am ET

McCAIN YOU AND ALL MOUTH OBAMA NEED TO HOLD UP ON WHAT YOU ARE SAYING. YOU TWO ARE NOT PRESIDENT YET. IT'S UP TO THE PRESENT ADMINISTRATION TO DO SOMETHING AND I HAVE NOT HEARD A PEEP OUT OF BUSH-CHENEY REIGN OF TERROR. EVEN THOUGH GEORGIA IS A BIG OIL SHIPPING PORT TO THE THE UNITED STATES. UNCALLED FOR ATTACKS SUCH AS IRAQ AND NOT GEORGIA IS ALL IT TAKES TO PLUMMET THIS WORLD INTO WORLD WAR THREE. WE'RE NOT FAR FROM IT NOW. STUPID WORDS WILL ONLY FAN THE FLAMES. WHIMPPIE WORDS SUCH AS OBAMA'S WILL NOT CUT IT. BIG STICKS WILL ONLY DO THE JOB.

John   August 13th, 2008 10:22 am ET

This is what happens when Dems become in charge and scare our military away with horrible political tactics… down sizing and make us look bad for wanting to defend someone (name calling like Mcsame and all that kiddie bull). Had this been anytime before bill–we could have taken this issue with ease.

Sean, atl, GA   August 13th, 2008 10:22 am ET

wow….McCain gets a reality check from a Country's president….supposedly his friend: don't use international conflicts as political talking points.

mel   August 13th, 2008 10:22 am ET

McCain, been in office for 26 years he suppose to know the
foreign leader.Obama,this is his first term and this why we
need new young blood as leader because what McCain done
in office all these years and now he want to do a lot. This what
have hurt this country america, the older politics. We have young
Doctor over bodies and we trust,but here a young man whom I
believe will make wonderful president but think it's who he that's
allow some individual to look the other way. Let's stop negative
campaign McCain and fight fair if you call yourself a leader,what
are you going to do,lie to foreign leader and be negative .

Lisa Lee Erikson   August 13th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Premier Putin threw down the gauntlet and we were helpless to respond…except with words…it was easy for our leaders to attack lesser countries such as Vietnam, where my loving husband lost his life and Iraq….Our world status has degraded to the point where we cannot support our allies when faced against a powerful foe….the only hope we have is that President Obama will right our ship and we can at least have the moral high ground….Senator McCain reminds me of a yesterday person who doesn't know reality and is tilting at windmills that can never fall.

Dameun Strange   August 13th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Now who is all words, McInSane?

William, from Cali!   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

"Just words" is the best he's going to get from McCain or Obama…………….."Deeds, from these guys", Well he's going to have to get in line, for those; maybe after 1/20/2009………….if he can wait, that long!

Jan Ill.   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Words from American citizen to any foreign country, WE have our own problems that are in desperate need of our full attention here {and here is the whole problem} SIRS. War belongs to men, of greed and no conscience.

Michael   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Be careful McCain.. you aren't president yet! Don't make empty promises that you currently have no power to follow up on.

Tired of W, OH   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

McCain is all talk. He's trying to sound presidential, but he will be exposed for the fraud that he is. It's very presumptuous and arrogant for him to be pretending that he's already POTUS.

Dick/NH   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Why was the Georgian president attacking the area in dispute LAST WEEK??? Did he actually think that Putin (still the REAL leader) would not retaliate? Or did he think the U.S. would come to his aid ?
Maybe the "wrinkly white-haired guy" would lead the charge on his jet-ski?
BTW, "wrinkly white-haired guy" , it was very presumptuous of you to speak for "all Americans"….let me make it clear that YOU DO NOT SPEAK FOR ME!!!

Watermann   August 13th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Please, fellow Americans, wake up or grow up. Here in Germany we can do nothing but laugh about the way senator McCain is talking about his foreign policy credentials. That is just the same wording as your sitting President is going to use. If you don`t want to spend the coming years in a "splendid isolation" like the English some hundred years ago, then try a change of your politics. The real world needs strong diplomacy, constructive talks, good judgement and acceptance of other nations and not banning Russia or China from international summits. What do you think these two nations are?

Ty in Missouri   August 13th, 2008 10:20 am ET

I find this interesting, when John McCain gave a press opportunity on this matter, he pronounced the Georgian Presidents name incorrectly three times. Instead of occupying all his time to slam Obama, he should be more concerned with people feeling he is really unaware of the situation. Is he trying to underscore the current president, to act like a geriatric Maverick? Probably so. Very sad.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   August 13th, 2008 10:20 am ET

Gee, a Republican being called out by a foreign leader.

Reminds me of how Kim Jung Il called "Jet-Pilot" out, and "Jet-Pilot" flinched!

The world is on to you, John McCain!

JohnnyG   August 13th, 2008 10:20 am ET

That’s hilarious. I love how the Geogian president called McCain out on his empty rhetoric. God, I'm SO SICK of hearing the republicans use emotional manipulation as a tool to win elections. McCain is a disgrace.

Len in Washington   August 13th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Well he really stepped in it now, didn't he?

You're not the President, SENATOR McCain. You overstepped your bounds yesterday and now the Georgian President is calling you on it.
Is this what you plan on as POTUS?

John McCain: A foreign policy of "Open Mouth, Insert Foot?"

Jul   August 13th, 2008 10:19 am ET

No problem… McWar would also send the troups to Georgia, to fight against Russia! Have fun - welcome to the next Cold War!

Pat   August 13th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Well John…get on your jet ski and help your pal out!

mary, texas   August 13th, 2008 10:19 am ET

don't worry president saakashvili,

when mccain is president, he will declare war on russia, to go with his war on iraq, iran, afghanistan, pakistan, north korea, north vietnam, and anyone else that displeases him.

Lisa   August 13th, 2008 10:18 am ET

What an idiot!! He is pathetic. I hate to hear his name. All he wants to do is fight!!!!

Edward   August 13th, 2008 10:18 am ET

RIght on, Sam! My question is why the headlines tout words like "Obama's lack of experience with Georgia" rather than "McCain wants to recreate Cold War danger with Russia"…

JA Cook   August 13th, 2008 10:18 am ET

McCain has simply highlighted our weakness and his.

We can't even put troops into Afghanistan to finish the job there because 38 days after 9/11 (on David Letterman), McCain was already more interested in Iraq.

Shock and Awe? More like aw, shucks!

The Russians know we've become an overextended paper tiger.

George   August 13th, 2008 10:18 am ET

McCain and Bush have no moral authority on this issue. They invaded Iraq under false pretenses. The U.S. isn't going to do a darn thing against Russia. It's all bluster! Hell when McCain first heard Russia invaded Georgia, he went to Atlanta.

Kurt   August 13th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Come on McCain he called your bluff! Now what are you going to do!? I'm sure your results will be no surprise…

Democrat   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

If McCain gets elected our country will never recover. We need a leader who knows when to use diplomacy, not one who thinks war is the first and only response. McCain wants to fight with every country that does not agree with us. And why would Georgia expect America to step in and help out? Because the Bush administration has encouraged them and led them to believe we would. PLEASE DEAR GOD have the repugs leave office before they destroy what we hold dear! Our lives!

Jon   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Where's Obama???? Oh yeah he'd rather be windsurfing?

Nate   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

We should have NATO enforce a no fly zone over Georgia.

McCain's too old and too risky   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

McCain is an empty suit that panders to everybody. He's all talk. He'll say or flip-flop on anything to get elected. How can he be trusted?

DC Steve   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

LOL…this is great!!! Now lets see what the great panderer does about this!

bibek   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Slap in the face.. McCain!!!!

Words words words.. and most of the time you don't even know what you are talking about!!!

You're not fooling us this time!

Obama '08
:-D

Bill MA.   August 13th, 2008 10:17 am ET

The republicans, and Hillary's Hysterical Hens now have their chance to really help McCain. You think he is the answer to solve America's problems this year. You can't, or won't vote for Obama. Grow up, or sign up. Join McCain's army now. After all, he has the experience.

Danny   August 13th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Yes, Mr. McWar. That's the only thing he talks about -and he thinks he knows about this subject because he was a war prisoner. He has chaired any important committee or anything related to Security or anything like that. Not all baseball players can mane a baseball team. So, just because he fought "one war" decades ago doesn't mean he "knows how to win wars" -by winning them. This is -he is- so stupid.

Independent voter   August 13th, 2008 10:15 am ET

well mccain?

just words?

Sue/PA   August 13th, 2008 10:15 am ET

That fact that the Georgian President insuates that McCain can actually do anything to help them is at the very least laughable. There is nothing remotely funny about this conflict.

Has McCain givien them a "wink and a nod" prior to this conflict? His advisor is a lobbist for Georgia……….questions questions questions……………………..CNN SHOULD BE INVESTIGATING THIS……BE HONEST WITH THE PUBLIC………….we deserve at least that, after 8 yrs of bold lieing.

Dem   August 13th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Now is NOT the time for confrontation. Bringing out our guns will encourage them to bring out theirs. We CAN"T afford this right now.

If McCain were president, would he do anything else other than send all of our troops into another WAR like his experience tells him? Probably not, he has no experience in anything other than war war WAR!

D R   August 13th, 2008 10:15 am ET

This old angry man needs to retire. Shooting your mouth off like that while running for president isn't the brightest thing to do! Calling Putin a man of little integrity! Calling him many names! That's just what we need, another country hating us, this time it's a super power!

g   August 13th, 2008 10:14 am ET

I wonder if McWar has a short man's complex? He has to be macho like Chavez. And Lieberman his other shorty sidekick. A guy who never served in the Armed Forces talks big too. And the neocons, never fought a day. They talk big. War is not something to use to score political points, especially if behind all of it some deep rooting little man's complex.

IsMcCainPresidentnow?   August 13th, 2008 10:14 am ET

Where are all the Republicans screaming about McCain acting like a President already? That is all we heard out of you while Senator Obama was in Europe so, let's hear it. Also Mr. McCain I am NOT a Georgian today ,or yesterday, or tomorrow, I am an American always. Also CNN why do you never mention that McCains advisor Scheunemman was a PAID LOBBYIST for Georgia up until a few months ago? Show some integrity.

Alie   August 13th, 2008 10:14 am ET

Exactly. McCain is all words and no deeds. 25 years in Washington and what has he done? He'll say anything.

Linda from Prescott AZ   August 13th, 2008 10:14 am ET

McCain's statement was theatrics, a good sound bite for one of his hateful commercials.

Sharon   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

McCain Urged it go to The UN Security Council.

McCain urge halt to fighting in Georgia and to convene an emergency session of the U.N. Security Council to resolve the crisis.

Get the information out and discuss, work on ways to ending this.

Chuck   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

McWar is sounding more and more like Dr. Strange Love!

Karen-phoenix   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

The Bush administration has soooo crippled our country we can not come to the defense of anyone!!! Yes McCain you speak empty words and always have. The US is broke finnancially and emotionally. We have NO army left. It is going to take Obama working 24/7 to get us back to some kind of reasonable state. AND McCain can not even work 3 or 4 full days a week! Out with old and in with the new. AND MCCAIN, NO DRAFT!!!! I will make sure my grandkids go to Canada before you do that!!! Go Obama!!

jengelberger   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

I think a rule should be made: If you vote for McCain to be President then you should also have to enlist in the military. It is obvious that if this guy becomes president the United States will be involved in countless wars and conflicts that could have been easily avoided and handled in a diplomatic manner that would not end the lives of thousands of young men and women. Let's try to be the ones who are not responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent citizens of other countries and the deaths of so many in our own military.

JJ   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

Now it's time for McCain to put his money where his mouth is. He talks as though "he's the best person to handle this situation" so the Georgian President has now told him to step up to the plate. Enough talk, they need action.

So McCain, since you are the best qualified person to handle this, what are you planning on doing???? WE WANT ANSWERS!!!!!!

Ernest in MD   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

So, is McCain the Us President now… Isn't he too presumptious? What power does he have? Will he ask president Bush to sent troops in Georgia? Not thinkable. So why talk? Who wants to fight Russia? I think this will only show the american people why McCain is just a BLATTANT OPPORTUNIST.

Anonymous   August 13th, 2008 10:13 am ET

Everything McCain touches turns to crap. I've never seen a less effective presence on the national scene.

Even his lame attempt to sound supportive and tough has been turned back around on him. He can't even take Obama's total absence from the media and use it to his advantage.

I think he would probably lose (or loose, if you prefer) to a cardboard cutout of Obama.

Diane Dagenais Turbide   August 13th, 2008 10:12 am ET

Hi Jack,

did not know that McCain is the President!

Shari, NY   August 13th, 2008 10:12 am ET

Hup, two, three, four!

Rosemarie   August 13th, 2008 10:12 am ET

It seems to me that Americans are always waging war or want to back war. Too bad they don't like taking care of their fighting men when they return home. This is so shameful! I don't understand why these young men volunteer to join the military. Oh yea, they are poor, minority and looking for an education that they can't afford otherwise. Americans, wake up and see the big picture. It's time to join forces to bring lasting peace to the world. Forger Warmonger John McCain and VOTE OBAMA!!!

F. Preyear   August 13th, 2008 10:12 am ET

The Georgian President is calling John McCain out! I thought that they are supposed to be such good friends and what McCain said meant soooo much. LOL

mayahh   August 13th, 2008 10:11 am ET

A huge SHUMACK in the face, whoops..

Ovitshio Branco from Connecticut   August 13th, 2008 10:11 am ET

this is my prediction

Mc War same McBush will die soon before the election and we will have peace with Obama the

Dream

wes   August 13th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Another war ahead… a little bird told me so…

Jennifer   August 13th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Kudos to the Georgian president for underlining the empty rhetoric spewing from Mccain over the past few days. He seems delighted in this war. He's a ghoul who will use the suffering of innocent civilians to further his election day goals. This is a new milennium and the saber rattling riculousness will do us and our children no good. Especially with a nuclear and seeming cold blooded country like Russia.

Obama we cant wait till you return rested and ready to put this rabid dog of a pseudo republican to bed.

Randal NYC   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Mccain's "We are all Georgians" remark wreaked of political motivation. I had to shake my head. Im glad he got called on it. But now he has a dialouge going wiht a foreign leader on a real issue while Obama is on vacation in Hawaii. The appearance of these developments is highly in favor of John Mccain.

This is scary. Russia has made a move and has exposed the US as weak and ineffective.
I dont know what Mccain would do if he becomes President. The more time that goes by the more he looks like Bush. His campaign lies and pulls BS stunts so he cant be trusted.
Obama has yet to show he has any cajones at all though.

Liberal4Obama   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

McCains Plan for Georgia = Jet skiis for everybody!!

Jim   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Also with most of Europe backing Obama, he could have had real talk with NATO force's and they could work togather to solve this, instead, again all Mccain offers is unrealistic tough talk to try to score political points, Obama would have been working with NATO by now and getting things done. But NATO and most of Europe doesn't even like Mccain, he would be on his own shooting off at the mouth from a far away land, while he's enjoying his wife's 100 million with bush's extended tax cuts, while sending the poor off to war and keeping his wife rich. POS.

Sharon from Oklahoma   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

John McCain is a name dropper. He thinks because he is 72 that he knows a lot more than that young whipper snapper Obama. Years does not necessarily make a man wise. His supported an invasion of Iraq, But of course they had WMD's didn't they. His lack of wisdom shows in the dumb ads he runs against Obama. He always hollers about his own experience but he fails to provide any solutions.

RealityKing   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

We should just send Georgia all those unexploded IED's from Iraq. That should make the Russia's think twice about further advances..

Franky   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

You know what I was thinking about guys?? I was actually thinking of President Bush and how he has handle the world. And I gotta say, the President is pretty calm to say the least. But if it was Senator McCain……to be honest, I have no idea what he'll do, LOL!!!

Now that's a Conservative! LOL!!! We like to think what he'll do but we just don't know for a fact, LOL!!!

Brett   August 13th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Please, I thoroughly enjoy McCain's campaign spinning positive news for a grumpy old candidate with no personality and horrible policies.

Veteran for Obama   August 13th, 2008 10:08 am ET

McCain is using Georgia and Russia another political stunt. Just like his campaign has said if there is a terrorist attack it will benefit McCain. Since that hasn't happed this is settling for second best.

If you want another military draft vote for McCain. He loves war and their will be alot of it.

Esther cuyahoga falls ohio   August 13th, 2008 10:08 am ET

what has McCain gotten us into with his we are all Georgians response. we not going to ride in on a white tank and save anyone else

lol   August 13th, 2008 10:08 am ET

this sudden conflict between russia/georgia highlights obama's lack of foriegn policy experience. mccain's entire life has been devoted to his country, obama's campaign has been empty rhetoric from the start. john mccain has the experience, and proven track record to show he is more than "just words". mccain 08!

jim in DC   August 13th, 2008 10:08 am ET

sam your an idiot. I think Mcgreat knows were not going to send troops to Georgia. Infact all he mentioned were sanctions against Russia. In case you missed the last century Russia hates America and everything we stand for. We will eventually go to war with them. Not because we want to but because we have to. Don't be blinded by hate.

Puck   August 13th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Oh no! McCain's BFF called him out! Snap!

Yesterday, we weren't all Georgians. McCain has been
waiting to say something to make himself sound Presidential,
and he jumped the gun by saying something as stupid as,
"Today, we are all Georgians."

And now, he's getting called out on it. Well played, Saakashvili.

demwit   August 13th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Where's Obama??

Larry in TX   August 13th, 2008 10:07 am ET

McCain calls Saakashvili daily.
He tells the Georgian leader "I feel your pain."
Saakashvili says "We are being destroyed."
McCain says "Today, we are all Georgians."
Saakashvili says "Your kind words mean much to me.
So, what will you do to help?"
"I'll call you again tomorrow."

M from Texas   August 13th, 2008 10:07 am ET

McCain is doing the right thing. We can't jump into another war, but he can rally domestic and international support for Georgia.

The Georgian president wants us to intervene, but it's too risky.

McCain is making the right move.

Again, congress is on a 5 week vacation while Obama is sipping martini's in Hawaii.

Jim   August 13th, 2008 10:06 am ET

If Obama was president there would have been a round table meeting right away and they would have analysed, gotten the facts, and dealt with it realistically, instead all we have is words and tough talk trying to score political points from Mcsame who has no authority on any of this.

Bill from ALabama   August 13th, 2008 10:06 am ET

Again,clearly,McCain is the only American that knows what we should do with this unwarranted Russian invasion. Clear messages should be sent to the Russian President to withdraw immediately,and stand down,or we'll be forced to take sides. We will not allow a Fledgling Democracy to be distroyed. Get out now,before we have to act! Russia must take their conplaints before the International powers that be,and let them decide the validity of their objections. Negotiations should be entered in ,from both Parties,and the U.S. should require both sides to air their differences,and seek a more peaceful way of solving the problems.

Alameda Chris   August 13th, 2008 10:06 am ET

Does McCain's adviser not detect the sarcasm in the Georgian president's statement?

Haha   August 13th, 2008 10:06 am ET

Mccain: " I was only planning on worrying about one Georgia this election now I have to worry about 2!?!!"

Dave   August 13th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Excuse me, Mr. Saa…McCain doesn't speak for all Americans….only himself. Most Americans have no clue of where Georgia the country is.

Abby   August 13th, 2008 10:05 am ET

"He urged the United States to take the lead in installing an international peacekeeping force." FORCE as in TROOPS? Ours are busy buddy! no can do.

David H. Blackburn   August 13th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Way to go, McCain. Common sense should tell our politicians on the republican side of the aisle and even democrats if they are listenening that if you are going to stand up for countries of the former Soviet Union who exert democracy, the U.S., EU and NATO have to do more than talk. Talk is cheap.

What was needed from the beginning was a strong presence of troops in these democracies. Further, whose decision was it that Russia peacekeepers would keep the peace in a break-a-way province. Pure stupidity!!!!

VOTE Democrat   August 13th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Same O Republicans- McFEAR is trying to scare up some votes.

Veteran for Obama   August 13th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Oh my goodness, the Georgian president is doing the media's job by calling McCain to the carpet. McCain is being accused of using this war as a political stunt and is full of hot air.

McCain is the old politician that has a hardened hate for countries like Russia, China, and everyone else. He also loves war.

Be prepared for a military draft again if he is elected.

JM   August 13th, 2008 10:04 am ET

PUMA

Abby   August 13th, 2008 10:04 am ET

Future President Obama, you need to make a statement NOW..dont let this story get cold. Now is the time to point out how ridiculous McCain’s statements were. Out of vacation for you sir.

Raymond K Hessel   August 13th, 2008 10:04 am ET

The time has now come for all of McCain's hawks who have contributed to these message boards in support of his tougher stance against Russia to go down to your local military recruiter's office and sign on the line that is dotted. Good luck "my friends".

SO   August 13th, 2008 10:04 am ET

"Old man" from town wants to make war.Well he doesnt have much life left to lose does he?

John Griswell   August 13th, 2008 10:03 am ET

CNN why no mention that Randy Scheuneman was the sole foreign lobbyist for Georgia until MArch of THIS year. McCain's bellicose rhetoric was bought and paid for by the Georgian government.

ChicagoJosh   August 13th, 2008 10:03 am ET

Well i guess Georgia is in for a suprise.. it turns out McCain is NOT the president. Turns out he was NOT speaking for every American.

Ed Ward   August 13th, 2008 10:02 am ET

Here we go. McCain is on the hot seat now.

Secretly he's having wargasms, but America has no stomach for another military conflict.

John, you've made a fool of yourself again. At least you're consistent.

McTalk and No Action   August 13th, 2008 10:02 am ET

What is McCain going to do to help Georgians? Nothing…he is all talk. The guy has no clue.

Swift   August 13th, 2008 10:02 am ET

McMoron thought they were talking about Georgia in the south, McInsane doesn't know there is a world outside of America's borders.

McCreepy: Just another Anti-American, traitorous, cowardly, woman-hating republiscum.

Franky   August 13th, 2008 10:02 am ET

Ohhh yeah, I said GOP…….what else do they know??

Tony   August 13th, 2008 10:01 am ET

Who does McCain think he is policing the world? Bush????

BUTT OUT!

W.H. Thomas   August 13th, 2008 10:01 am ET

Okay, in other words time to send in the military. McCain shouldve kept his mouth shut about the whole ordeal, and issued written statements like Bush and Obama. Now McCain is going to have to put up or shut up.

Abby   August 13th, 2008 10:01 am ET

WOW…What actions? there is still one president and it aint McWar. And there is no levarge there. This is crazy.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   August 13th, 2008 10:00 am ET

So America, Do you feel safer than you were four or eight years ago?

John   August 13th, 2008 10:00 am ET

Back your talk up now sir.

JS   August 13th, 2008 10:00 am ET

See, it's not just in America we see McCain as all words

Franky   August 13th, 2008 9:59 am ET

Well……it looks like the GOP is gonna want to talk about this for a month….

M from Texas   August 13th, 2008 9:59 am ET

Sam, McCain can't do much right now because he isn't president and Nancy Pelosi gave congress a 5 week vacation.

All McCain can do is rally support until congress returns from a 5 week Nancy Pelosi vacation.

McCain is already working with UN to establish a peacekeeping force.

Meanwhile, Obama is on vacation in Hawaii, HA!

Jimmy P - Chicago   August 13th, 2008 9:59 am ET

We need to reinstate the draft! Make some of these whining liberal slime earn what they have living in this country. Then maybe, they will learn some respect!

Old Stradlater   August 13th, 2008 9:58 am ET

Who's the candidate of empty words? Seems to be McCain.

ROSJ   August 13th, 2008 9:58 am ET

There is nothing Mr. McCain can do now. He put his foot in his mouth.
This is what he always does.
Go Obama!

Truth B Told   August 13th, 2008 9:58 am ET

John McCain- The Straight Talk Express, that's all nothing else except Alzhimers!!!!

Robert R   August 13th, 2008 9:57 am ET

way to go McCain! What are you really going to do now?

Stop saying things you cant possibly do nothing about.

What if?   August 13th, 2008 9:57 am ET

President Mikheil Saakashvili, stated he heard McCain say " We are all Georgians now,’ We are sorry for what Russia is doing, but who should you listen to when we haven't help and resolved the many daily struggles of our own neighbors in New Orleans after Katrina…

Empty suit, arrogant, false smile and full of air old man….

Obama 08

Jimmy P - Chicago   August 13th, 2008 9:57 am ET

You liberals haven't a clue of the evils in this world. The Eastern mentality understands nothing but force - and the West has not the will to prevail. Russia will simply laugh at the impotence of the U.N., NATO, and the rest of the West and take all they gave up after the break-up of the Soviet Union. It's basically post WWII all over again! And once again, after being the whipping boy of the free world for decades, everyone will look to the U.S. to save their rears again. Although this time, it may not be possible!

newspaperblogger   August 13th, 2008 9:57 am ET

Great way to commit to another world fiascal. We have two wars and the economy is down. McCain will lead us to doom if we focus to much on other countries unilaterally. Foreign experience is touted for McCain. But put up or shut up. If you put up, you are starting another Cold War with Russia.

Mike, TX   August 13th, 2008 9:57 am ET

The US should immediately invite the Ukraine into NATO, as well as state its intention that the US will no longer meet with the G-8, but only the G-7. All Russian acquisitions in the US (steel and other industries) should be put on hold.

Unfortunately, with a Congress led by Pelosi and the Senate led by Reid, Putin knows that the United States will stand by while he rapes his neighbor.

Bram   August 13th, 2008 9:55 am ET

Most walls are full so this is a comment that has nothing to do with the story.

But i lose all respect for a hillary supporter who now votes for John Mccain. This is someone who clearly doesnt care about his or her country nor does this person care about their own values and morales and will sell them out just for spite.

Hillary and Barack had 95% of the same policies. On the other hand McCain wants to build a supreme court filled with pro life - anti homosexual judges. If you vote for Hillary that you can possibly want what John McCain is doing.

Well, i guess the one thing they had in common is the gas tax holiday. SO if you are voting based on an idea that was said to pander and that every economist rejected than i guess McCain is the choice.

MD in GA   August 13th, 2008 9:54 am ET

What on earth does Senator McCain think the US can do to help Georgia right now. His answer to EVERYTHING is more US military presence all over the world.

I hope the folks planning on voting for him in Nov. don't have children or grandchildren in the 18 to 30 range. Given how he thinks, every one of them will be at risk of being part of the new draft he will likely impliment.

This is serious business and just because McCain supporters are older and can't be sent away, doesn't mean their family members can't… Hope enough people open their eyes before it's too late.

Jack   August 13th, 2008 9:53 am ET

LMAO

McCain is senile and still thinks he is in the 1980s.

Franky   August 13th, 2008 9:53 am ET

By the way guys, if you think I'm worried…..YEAH RIGHT!! I ain't that worried first of all. But I am worried about what's gonna happen over there.

All right tough guy, I'm so scared…

Mike in Houston   August 13th, 2008 9:52 am ET

Hey Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, you decided to make a move against the Russians, get your ownself out of it. Let me give you give you a Las Vegas analogy Mr. President: if you bet all of your life savings on one hand, and lose, you can't go to the pit boss and ask him for help to get your money back. And McCain, I am not Georgian, I am an American from the United States, thank you very much. Fight your own battle losers. You started it, take your butt kicking like a man, sissy.

M from Texas   August 13th, 2008 9:52 am ET

Meanwhile, Obama is on vacation in Hawaii. While Pelosi forced congress to go on a 5 week vacation so that congress can't vote on anything. That includes offshore drilling and this Georgian crisis.

Democrats at work.

Sean   August 13th, 2008 9:50 am ET

Hmm… John's "friend" called him out. Guess that friendship doesn't go both directions.

McDrill here and Now.   August 13th, 2008 9:50 am ET

I hope every American can see the lack of diplomacy which is ridden in McCain camp. Now he isn't a president and already drawing you people to a war with Russia….. when he becomes one sorry ..the world will be gone as we know it.

Sam   August 13th, 2008 9:49 am ET

Now that Georgian President has thrown down the gauntlet, the emptiness of McCain's faux hawkiness becomes even more apparent. All of these neocon talk has been outed as fake; only McCain continues to pretend that Americans will continue to fall for the empty talk.

What real steps can McCain offer to help Georgia? The troops that are supposed to spend 100 years in Iraq? We cant even get enough troops together to scare Iran, where we have issues directly threatening our own interest! For goodness sake we dont even have enough troops to do the job right in Afghanistan!

American troops in Georgia? Not a chance!

So, Mr. McWar, what EXACTLY do you plan to do about Georgia?

Arin   August 13th, 2008 9:49 am ET

We need to send US troops into Georgia. They sent troops to help us in Iraq, so it seems we need to return the favor. If they are an ally, we have to help them. Send troops to Georgia!
McCain '08.

United   August 13th, 2008 9:48 am ET

So John McCain had alot of tough talk that he can't back up with action. Sounds like Bush.

Dave C - NJ   August 13th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Empty words from McCain, as usual.
And you people think Obama has no substance? Please.

At least Obama looked at the issue before spouting off.

Charlotte   August 13th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Obama thinks they should kiss and make-up! Leadership you can count on? What a joke Obama has turned out to be. Change we can count on. The changes in his positions are fast and furious…One day he has one position, the next day it changes. Change we can believe will happen, depending on public opinion, ex: Off shore drilling, NAFTA, FISA……

Franky   August 13th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Go ahead, let them talk issue 1…..let's see if they make sense.

Mike in Houston   August 13th, 2008 9:47 am ET

Hey Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili, you decided to make a move against the Russians, get your ownself out of it. Let me give you give you a Las Vegas analogy Mr. President: if you bet all of your life savings on one hand, and lose, you can't go to the pit boss and ask him for help to get your money back. And McCain, I am not Georgian, I am an American for the United States, thank you very much. Fight your own battle losers. You started it, take your butt kicking like a man, sissy.

Obama 08

Rico   August 13th, 2008 9:47 am ET

Wait, Isn't McCain and his people the ones giving Obama grief for acting like he's already president? "We are all Georgians". Ha ha, what an old, old man.

Kim, Charlotte, NC   August 13th, 2008 9:47 am ET

McCain told a crowd in Pennsylvania yesterday that he had called Saakashvili to express solidarity with the people of Georgia, saying: “Today, we are all Georgians.”

..Idiot!

RJ, CA   August 13th, 2008 9:47 am ET

But Saakashvili said action is more important than rhetoric in the face of “brutal” and “deliberate” Russian violence. He urged the United States to take the lead in installing an international peacekeeping force.

————————-

I'm sure Obama will shortly be the first to announce: As I've always said — and let me be very clear — the United States must take the lead in installing an international peacekeeping force.

Obama supporter:White, 60 year old woman   August 13th, 2008 9:46 am ET

Even his good friend from Georgia can see that McCain is a blustering, empty suit.

McCain should think and check the facts before he speaks and to be careful of who he thinks America should align itself with.

CC Reston VA   August 13th, 2008 9:45 am ET

Ha! John McCain you buddy is calling you out! So when are you going to bomb Russia you war monger? Not ever I suppose because it will mean the end of the world as we know it.

Please help! Somebody please help! How could we have allowed John McBomb to be running for president. This might be the final blow that breaks the back of America. God help us!

Klaus   August 13th, 2008 9:45 am ET

Last time I checked, the American people hadn't elected John McCain as president. In fact, according to the polls, most of them prefer Barack Obama at the moment. So why is McCain being so presumptuous?

Nadeem   August 13th, 2008 9:45 am ET

And the fact that McCain has Gorgian paid lobbyists in his campaing has nothing to do with this statement?

Does the media do any work or simply reprint statements from the campaigns?

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   August 13th, 2008 9:44 am ET

I don't think a warmonger like McCain should ever be put in charge of our country. He gets a gleam in his eye at the mention of being at war.

He (so far) has showed the pompous elitist old presumptuous anal cavity to be nothing more than awar-mongering ego-maniac of biblical proportions.

His blasphemy in some of his ads has turned me off.

And Last, I AM NOT GEORGIAN and he does not speak for me, my friends.

Go Obama '08 - diplomacy over war war war war war

Bob Indianapolis, IN   August 13th, 2008 9:43 am ET

Sorry, pal! Dumbya made a bunch of promises he couldn't keep. Not starting WWIII because you poked the Bear…And your pal John-Boy isn't going to be president, but after November , you two can still go water skiing on the Black Sea, if you're still around…

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