Russian President Dmitry Medvedev says his country is not afraid of a new Cold War but does not seek it.
"We are not afraid of anything, including the prospect of a new Cold War," Medvedev was quoted as saying todeay by the ITAR-Tass news agency.
"But we don't want it and in this situation everything depends on the position of our partners."
The statement comes hours after Medvedev recognised the independence of two Georgian rebel provinces, defying the West. The recognition follows a short but intense war with Western-allied Georgia earlier this month.
"If they want to preserve good relations with Russia in the West, they will understand the reason behind our decision," Medvedev said.