U.S. Has Little to Back Up Tough Talk With Russia

When Georgia invoked a long-standing agreement with the United States whereby the U.S. military flew home all of Georgia's roughly 2,000 soldiers from Iraq at Georgia's request, the Bush administration was sure to inform Moscow of its actions and intentions.

Similarly, as U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships deliver humanitarian aid to Georgia, they have been careful to avoid ports patrolled by Russian ships and troops.

Simes argued, however, that the U.S. should defend Georgia by rearming its military to force Russia off of undisputed Georgian territory.

"That is real leverage and we can use it," Simes said. But, he warned, "if they [Russia] interfere, there will be high confrontation."

Collins argues, however, that a diplomatic solution might still be reached.

"They have to talk about some kind of deal that takes into account the interests of the various parties involved," he said.

Collins cites one reason for optimism.

"Nobody is talking about bringing down the International Space Station," he said.