Vladimir Putin has claimed victory in presidential elections after appearing before tens of thousands of chanting supporters in the capital, Moscow. Election monitors say the polls were tainted by widespread violations. READ MORE

During his report to Parliament, President Mikheil Saakashvili announced that Georgia is unilaterally ending its visa regime with Russia. Moscow responded to this act of goodwill on March 2, by offering to restore diplomatic relations. The Russian government may believe that Saakashvili's decision is a sign that Tbilisi is accepting the "new reality" of the region, but Georgia is still standing firm behind its demand to see the de-occupation process started before relations with Russia can be normalized. READ MORE

A major transformation of the global market for natural gas is under way. Fresh international supply routes are being drawn, new exporters are emerging and established trade patterns are being turned on their heads. READ MORE

Moscow said on Friday in response to Georgia's unilateral lift of visa requirements for Russian citizens, that it was ready to reciprocate, but called on Tbilisi to revise its law on occupied territories. READ MORE

“I wish to express my deep regret for the reported incident. … I extend to you and the Afghan people my sincere apologies.” READ MORE

Mikheil Saakashvili has not that many associates, with whom he started reforms in 2003. Fellows-in-arms leave Georgian President for opposition. They turn from friends into rivals. And often into irreconcilable enemies. Georgi Baramidze – is an exception of this rule of Georgian policy. READ MORE