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http://www.contr-tv.ru/common/2824/
The above contains the detailed description of the roots of the conflict ( in Russian, unfortunately). BUT... among other things it says:
In 1994 there was a treaty under the umbrella of the Mixed Control Commission between Russia, Georgia and both Ossetias. It defined the Southern Ossetia's status and also de-facto recognized its limited sovereignity. As such the Georgian unilateral attack was forbidden.
End of the story, folks.


