Tensions escalated after the arrest in Georgia of four Russian military officers accused of spying.

Russia has been gradually withdrawing equipment and troops from its two military bases in Georgia. It plans to completely close the bases by the end of 2008.

A top Russian commander drew a direct connection between the decision and the heightening tension, and blamed the Georgians for the decision.

The agreement to withdraw Russian forces from Georgia, reached last year after hard-fought negotiations, was a victory for pro-Western President Mikhail Saakashvili, who has sought to reduce Russian influence. AP

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