Today, I’m taking a one-day break from the Sixth District walking tour and catching up on administrative matters and correspondence.

The walking tour resumes tomorrow.

I’m tracking the following international developments relevant to my campaign focus on national security:

THE RUSSIAN INVASION OF GEORGIA

Russia: Georgia can ‘forget’ regaining provinces (AP, Aug. 14, 2008) — The foreign minister of Russia said Thursday that Georgia could “forget” about getting back its two breakaway provinces, and the former Soviet republic remained on edge as Russia sent tank columns to search out and destroy Georgian military equipment. … In London, BP PLC said it resumed pumping natural gas Thursday through one Georgia pipeline, but two oil pipelines in Georgia remain closed. … Full story

Why Georgia shouldn’t rely on U.S. (Newsweek, Aug. 14, 2008) — Having done so much to sap American economic and military strength and diminish its own diplomatic credibility over the last seven years, the White House now finds itself peculiarly vulnerable. … Full story

NEWS FROM IRAQ

Woman bomber kills 26 in Iraq (AP, Aug. 14, 2008) — A female suicide bomber struck Shiite pilgrims south of Baghdad, killing at least 26 people and wounding dozens. … Full story

[Note: See my blog entry for Aug. 12 (Day 29) on “an emerging threat” in Iraq, the mujahidaat — female suicide bombers motivated by revenge.]

U.S. military deaths in Iraq war at 4,141

Report: Iraq contracts cost U.S. billions