South Ossetia Discusses Joining Russia in Potential Referendum
• South Ossetia, which broke away from Georgia, has discussed becoming part of Russia with Moscow officials • Russia recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent states after the 2008 war with Georgia • A few countries like Venezuela and Syria also recognized South Ossetia and Abkhazia as independent • South Ossetia's parliament chair said they are discussing referendum options with Russia on potentially joining the Russian Federation • South Ossetia's leader last year expressed hope the region could formally become part of Russia