The failed revolution in Uzbekistan is an example of “fake” independence of former Soviet republics.
Many media outlets are comparing Uzbekistan situation to the ones that triggered revolutions in Ukraine, Georgia and Kyrgyzstan. However, they forget that those countries couldn’t open fire at peaceful protesters – there was too much at stake.
How could Georgia argue about Russian military bases leaving the country if they had decided to shoot their own citizens? And how would president Saakashvili be able to invite George Bush, if he had seized the power by assassinating the previous leaders?
Uzbekistan president Karimov does no;t have anything to worry about. No matter how many people he kills, nothing is going to change in a bigger picture. Karimov is very valuable to America and to Russia. He is the one who invited and hosts American air base, which is used for military operation in Afghanistan. At the same time he manages to maintain positive relations with President Putin. Besides, the large part of the protesters is believed to be Islamic extremist who broke free from jail the night before the revolt.
Russian military bases are neighboring with Americans in the countries of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Karimov's political position is priceless: he brings together Russia and America in the war against terrorism. It was Karimov and Putin who made the joint decision after 9/11 to let the Americans use former Soviet air bases for military strikes against the Taliban.
Bush and Putin are happy. The little revolt will be over anyway, without the support of great notice. Why notice 700 dead Uzbeks?
Even so, the events in Uzbekistan are covered by all major media outlets:
