What kind of ceasefire allows for the mobilization of missile launchers in the warring region? The New York Times’s Michael R. Gordon reports:

Even as Russia pledged to begin withdrawing its forces from neighboring Georgia on Monday, American officials said the Russian military had been moving launchers for short-range ballistic missiles into South Ossetia, a step that appeared intended to tighten its hold on the breakaway territory.

The Russian military deployed several SS-21 missile launchers and supply vehicles to South Ossetia on Friday, according to American officials familiar with intelligence reports. From the new launching positions north of Tskhinvali, the South Ossetian capital, the missiles can reach much of Georgia, including Tbilisi, the capital.

Blame falls squarely on Nicolas Sarkozy, who negotiated the six-point agreement. Look at the toothlessness of said six-points (with some Fisking by me) :

– No recourse to the use of force.

Just preparation for the use of force.

– A lasting cessation of hostilities.

How exactly is “lasting” defined?

– Unfettered access for humanitarian aid providers.

And for Russian missile launcher personnel.

– Georgian forces must withdraw to their usual barracks.

Sure, where else should they be while Russian troops freely roam their cities.

– Russian forces must go back to positions they held prior to the outbreak of hostilities. Pending an international peace monitoring mechanism, Russian peacekeepers will take additional security measures.

Russian forces haven’t gone back anywhere. And I nominate “international peace monitoring mechanism” for silliest world peace non-sequitur of the year. Look for it in an Obama speech coming to you soon.

– Launch of international discussions on security and stability arrangements for Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

Nothing says “solution” like international discussion. Just look at the UN’s record.

For Moscow, this was not so much a ceasefire as a lease extension. Sarkozy’s deal allows the Russians to replace foot soldiers with missile launchers while Georgian forces twiddle their thumbs in the barracks. Additionally, there isn’t a word about the future of Georgia’s territorial integrity. Moscow has dictated every step of the action thus far and continues to do so. I hope Condoleezza Rice has a chance to enjoy all the lovely sights of Brussels during her stay in Belgium.