Bush says U.S. stands with Georgia

CRAWFORD, Texas, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush called on Russia Saturday to honor Georgia's borders and withdraw its troops from its overmatched neighbor.

Speaking to reporters at his Texas ranch after being briefed by his national security team, Bush noted a major issue is Russia's contention that South Ossetia and Abkhazia "may not be a part of Georgia's future."

"But these regions are a part of Georgia, and the international community has repeatedly made clear that they will remain so," Bush said. "Georgia is a member of the United Nations, and South Ossetia and Abkhazia lie within its internationally recognized borders. Georgia's borders should command the same respect as every other nation's.

"There's no room for debate on this matter."

Russia, he said, needs to honor the cease-fire and vacate the Georgian territories.

The president also said the U.S. military will continue to fly humanitarian relief supplies into Georgia.