Russia has invaded a sovereign neighboring state and threatens a democratic government elected by its people. Such an action is unacceptable in the 21st century.
The above is an excerpt from US President George W Bush’s comments on August 11th from the Rose Garden. I would find the words very truthful and would be concerned if I were Russia except I would need to hear them from someone other than a leader who has invaded a sovereign – not neighboring – state and threatened its government – if you can call disposing the government totally threatening.
How can George W Bush stand in front of the country and make statements like this when he himself has started aggressions? How can George W Bush feel he has the leadership position to try to save this situation from itself? How can George W Bush feel he has the moral authority to criticize a country that is doing what it feels is in its own best interest?
You can read the entire comments – no questions, just comments – at the White House news release site.
Nicki's Nook 
Interesting…How can you defend Russia and condemn Bush. Deposing Saddam was in the best interests of the US, so by your own logic that should be OK too. Also, remember that international politics has little if anything to do with “moral authority” – or at least we’d better hope it doesn’t.
I am not defending Russia. I am, though, saying he has NO authority to condemn any country for invading a sovereign nation. We did it and with no provocation so his authority is criticizing others that do it is nil. It is also the ultimate irony that he feels he can make statements like this.
invaded a sovereign – not neighboring – state and threatened its government – if you can call disposing the government totally threatening
Indeed, how the US dared to invade Germany?
I am not disagreeing with you, but without provocation? I think there was plenty, and likely more that we weren’t privvy to.
If W’s war is, indeed, The War on Terrorism, then it’s apples and oranges. That’s not Russia’s motivation, and theirs is not ours – although ours has become murkier with time.
As our President, I expect W to make statements and stand on the side of democracy, freedom, and independence. Do I see the contradiction? Of course. Would I rather he perpetuate the perception of ignorance and bury his head in the sand? Absolutely not.
Is this our problem alone? Again, absolutely not.
The timing of this aggression is suspect. These states seemed to have Russia’s backing for independence, their citizens being issued Russian passports, and being given (Russian) military aid.
Now, we have troops there, training their military and Georgia is attempting to join NATO. It looks like Ukraine and Moldova will follow. Remember that Russia was not in a position to do much about the Baltic States move to NATO.
I believe Russia’s actions are an attempt to re-establish control over what was formerly their sphere of influence – a move to regain some balance of power.
As such, it is a Western concern. And, that is where moral authority comes into play – the leaders of Western Governments must stand united in condemnation to have NATO issue formal proclamations, and provide peace keeping forces.
I would be livid with W if he feigned unconcern. We absolutely can not ignore hot spot situations in pursuit of our own agendas.
Now. You want to rag on Ms. Rice? I’m with you all the way. Our esteemed Secretary of State has remained publicly silent while burning up the phone lines, urging peaceful resolution, and remaining on vacation.