“This decision is inconsistent with numerous United Nations Security Council Resolutions that Russia has voted for in the past, and is also inconsistent with the French-brokered six-point ceasefire agreement which President Medvedev signed on August 12, 2008,” Bush said in a statement.

Earlier Tuesday, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said his country would recognize South Ossetia and fellow Georgian province Abkhazia as independent from Russia.

“The territorial integrity and borders of Georgia must be respected, just as those of Russia or any other country,” Bush stated. “Russia’s action only exacerbates tensions and complicates diplomatic negotiations. In accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolutions that remain in force, Abkhazia and South Ossetia are within the internationally recognized borders of Georgia, and they must remain so.”

White House spokesman Tony Fratto told reporters earlier that any Russian efforts to get South Ossetia and Abkhazia recognized by the United Nations would be “dead on arrival” at the U.N. Security Council.

Fratto added that Russia had made a “number of irrational decisions” with regard to the conflict.

“So far we've seen a series of unfortunate decisions by the Russians that only serve to further isolate them,” Fratto said. “And we hope that they hear the loud voices from the international community and understand that it's not in their long-term interest to take these kinds of actions.”

Both presidential candidates also condemned Russia’s move.

“If Russia’s government continues to violate the norms and practices of the international community, the United States and our allies must review all aspects of relations with Russia,” Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) said.

“Let us be clear, no one wants to see another Cold War with Russia,” he added. “The United States and Russia have many mutual interests, and Russia has the potential to become a critical stakeholder in the international system. But Russia's recent choices --not American or European decisions -- are threatening this potential and reminding us all that peace and security in Europe cannot be taken for granted.”

Sen. John McCain called Russia’s move “a significant and negative step.”

“Moscow’s action deserves condemnation from the entire international community, and Russia must understand that its violations of international law carry consequences,” McCain, a vocal critic of Russia, stated.

“I also remain deeply concerned about Russia’s continued refusal to comply with the terms of the ceasefire ending hostilities with Georgia,” McCain stated.