Gorbachev Blames Big Powers For Mideast Violence

Mikhail Gorbachev (file photo) (RFE/RL)

July 21, 2006 -- Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev has blamed violence in the Middle East on the resurgence of big-power militarism.

In a statement during a trip to Australia, Gorbachev said that if powerful states "see military power as a viable means of resolving disputes, then we should not be surprised if other states also consider it a legitimate course."

Gorbachev, credited for his role in ending the Cold War, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990.

(AFP)