A Role for NATO in the Georgian conflict

August 11, 2008

With the Russian invasion of Georgia, I think we have finally found a role for NATO. The Europeans, especially, should be very concerned about the oil and gas pipelines.

I propose the introduction of NATO forces into Georgia for two purposes: (1) secure Georgian airspace in all areas other than South Ossetia and Abkhazia; (2) align ground forces just north of the pipelines.

Ideally, the NATO forces should be mostly European in composition, but the US should not hestitate to move forces from Iraq to Georgia if necessary. Our job in Iraq is now essentially finished.

These defensive moves should be accompanied by continued diplomacy in the UN and bilaterally with Russia, but I do not think that diplomacy alone will adequately protect Western interests.