Russian president Dmitry Medvedev announced that Russian troops will begin pulling back from Georgia tomorrow as Western leaders pushed for a swift withdrawal from positions Russia has held for days of warfare in its small southern neighbour.

Fighting continued tonight between Russia and Georgia with thousands dead or fleeing their homes and towns left smouldering ruins despite a cease-fire declaration.

Russia invaded Georgia today sending forces beyond the two breakaway provinces it now controls.

Launching fireworks and champagne corks into the air, thousands of Georgians revelled today in the resignation of President Eduard Shevardnadze in boisterous street celebrations in the capital Tbilisi, marking what many called a “holiday of freedom.”