UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 21 -- The offer was expansive in its wording and pointed in its timing. Vassily Nebenzia told the Security Council on Thursday that Russia stands ready to keep working with anyone who cares about the South Caucasus. He said it at a meeting five European governments had convened for the express purpose of marking eighteen years since Russian troops entered Georgia.

"Russia is guided by the interests of preserving and strengthening security in the region," Russia's permanent representative told the briefing. "We stand ready to continue engaging with those who care about the fate of the South Caucasus, who are also prepared to provide comprehensive assistance in promoting dialog between Tbilisi, Sukhumi and Tskhinvali."...