"I do think that the Russians have exceeded their mandate in regards to Georgia, yes. They will probably go ahead and do whatever they think they can get away with now, and whatever they think will work out best for them. That's what great powers do. (and sometimes they miscalculate badly in that regard too) "


Agreed.


"Are you aware, sir, that Canada has the world's largest reserves of untamed beaver? Are you??? I think that makes us just as important as India, if not more so. ;-)"


Yes, I was aware of that- but untamed is the key word.


"Plus, we are way ahead of them in maple syrup."

But they have better spices and teas- so I stand by my assessment.