Political analysts: Russia would not annex Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Russia prefers to build its relations with Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent countries, despite the statements of South-Ossetian politicians about their desire to join Russia, political analysts have stated. In their opinion, Abkhazia and South Ossetia are perceived by Russian authorities as a foreign territory.

The recognition of independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia after the Five-Day War in August 2008 allowed preserving stability in Transcaucasia, the Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said in his interview with the "Kommersant".

The idea of joining Russia is popular in South Ossetia unlike Abkhazia, the political analysts interviewed by the "Caucasian Knot" believe.

"Now, the Abkhazia's main goal is to be independent outside Georgia. In South Ossetia, a sufficient part of the elite declares the idea of joining Russia, but there is no unity on this issue," said Vadim Mukhanov, a political analyst.

According to Mr Mukhanov, Russia did not want in 2008, and has no intent now to annex Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Russia has never expressed a desire to incorporate Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Nikolai Silaev, a political analyst is sure. He has also stressed that in Abkhazia the idea of joining Russia is not popular at all.