South Ossetia’s unification referendum poses a dilemma for both Georgia and Russia

On 19 October 2015, the President of South Ossetia announced plans to hold a referendum on the territory’s unification with Russia. Till Spanke writes that while two previous referendums have been held following the territory’s declaration of independence from Georgia in 1990, a further referendum is unlikely to be welcomed in either Tbilisi or Moscow. He argues that there are few immediate advantages for Russia of pursuing a unification in the current climate and it is likely South Ossetia will come under pressure to delay or cancel the referendum process.

ESO: Background information: In the shadow of Ukraine: seven years on from Russian-Georgian war http://www.europeansources.info/record/in-the-shadow-of-ukraine-seven-years-on-from-russian-georgian-war/

The Independent, 20.10.15: South Ossetia: Separatist leader Leonid Tibilov plans referendum on 'reunification' with Russia http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/south-ossetia-separatist-leader-leonid-tibilov-plans-referendum-on-reunification-with-russia-a6701121.html

Sputnik International, 20.10.15: S Ossetia Did Not Voice Intention to Join Russia at Talks With Putin's Aide http://sputniknews.com/politics/20151020/1028798971/south-ossetia-join-russia-putin.html

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