In a recent commentary penned by Financial Times columnist Philip Stevens, the argument is made that Russia’s ultimate goal is to turn back the clock: to extend his (Putin) country’s borders to create the greater Russia sought by the leaders of the abortive coup against Boris Yeltsin in 1991. The actions documented today further that argument, and may serve as catalysts to the ultimate conglomeration. Annexation coming? Znaur Gassiyev, the Speaker of South Ossetia’s parliament, said the enclave would formally join Russia “in several years” or possibly earlier. This had been “firmly stated by both leaders” during their meeting in Moscow. Tarzan Kokoiti, the deputy Speaker, later predicted: “We will live in one united Russian state.”