What is going on in Georgia/Russia?

Question

With out spin please. No opinion. Just facts. Why now? What started it? What led up to this?

Answer 1

Their were some local conflicts between Georgia and Ossetia previous week. On thursday, 7 August, Saakashvilli said, that Georgia stops fire and is ready to negotiations. At night, 7-8 August, Georgian tanks, artillery and aircraft destroyed Tskhinvali, the capital of South Ossetia.

Answer 2

Put is flexing his power he is trying to gain some territory and don't think for one moment that he wouldn't like to see some of the other small countries join in.  He would then swoop all over them and take them back into the fold. He is looking for territory and more power, I think he is becoming a danger to many.