Tensions continue in the caucuses with Russian troops still present in Georgia (14.08.2008) je 18

Tensions continue in Georgia with widespread Russian military activity reported across the country. But United States Defence Secretary Robert Gates +++LM+REIN+++ said he had word that the Russian military was pulling back to positions held before the conflict began a week ago. Gates also said he does not foresee the use of US military force in Georgia. +++LM+RAUS+++ His statements came as US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice arrived in southern France for talks with president Nikolas Sarkozy on a French-sponsored peace plan for Georgia and Russia.