In a recent issue of the Georgian 24 Saati, Ambassador David Smith (Ret.) writes that a deal is in the works for the Russian Navy to buy a Mistral-class amphibious assault ship from France.  Russian officials say that following the purchase, they plan to build four more helicopter carriers of this class with technical assistance from the French.  But Amb. Smith warns that the deal has "ominous geopolitical implications."  Click below to read more.