It appears that there is a discrepancy with the date you provided. Russia recognized the independence of South Ossetia on August 26, 2008, not on December 27, 2010. Here is an account of the events surrounding the recognition:

Russia’s Recognition of South Ossetia’s Independence

Background

South Ossetia, a region in the South Caucasus with a population largely composed of ethnic Ossetians, has long sought independence from Georgia. Tensions in the region heightened during the post-Soviet Union period, leading to conflicts between Georgian forces and separatists backed by Russia.

Events of August 26, 2008

On August 26, 2008, Russia officially recognized the independence of South Ossetia, following a brief but intense military conflict earlier that month between Georgia and Russia. The conflict, often referred to as the Russo-Georgian War, erupted after Georgia attempted to regain control over the South Ossetian territory, which had declared de facto independence in the early 1990s.

Key Developments Leading to Recognition

• Russo-Georgian War: The war broke out on August 7, 2008, when Georgian forces moved into the separatist region of South Ossetia, which led to a military response by Russia.
• Military Intervention: Russia launched a large-scale military intervention, leading to significant casualties and accusations of ethnic cleansing.
• Ceasefire Agreement: A six-point ceasefire plan brokered by French President Nicolas Sarkozy ended hostilities on August 12, 2008.

International Reaction and Aftermath

• International Condemnation: Russia’s recognition was met with condemnation from the United States, NATO, and the European Union, all of whom reaffirmed support for Georgia’s territorial integrity.
• Limited Recognition: Aside from Russia, only a few other countries, including Nicaragua, Venezuela, and Nauru, have recognized South Ossetia’s independence.
• Continued Tensions: The recognition further strained Russia’s relations with Western countries and has contributed to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Broader Historical Significance

The recognition of South Ossetia by Russia is a significant event reflecting broader geopolitical dynamics in the Caucasus region. It highlights Russia’s strategic interests in its near abroad and its willingness to assert influence, contradicting the territorial norms recognized by most of the international community.

For accuracy, it’s important to understand that no major development regarding the recognition of South Ossetia’s independence occurred on December 27, 2010.