Georgian President Mikhail Saakash-vili today accused Russia of instigating hostilities in the Georgian separatist region of South Ossetia and urged it to use its influence with separatists to end the fighting. His comments come after heavy shelling overnight in the region wounded at least 21 people,

The South Ossetian separatist government said the provincial capital, Tskhinvali, and nearby areas came under heavy artillery and mortar shelling overnight from Georgian-controlled territory, injuring 18 people.

But Georgian authorities said South Ossetian separatist forces started firing on Georgian troops in the area and they had to retaliate.

Three Georgian soldiers were wounded in the skirmishes, according to , Georgia's Cabinet minister.

Tensions in the region have soared, stoking fears of full-scale war.

Georgian and South Ossetian officials were scheduled to meet on today to try to find a resolution, but separatist officials said the meeting was off because of the Georgian shelling.

Russia's Foreign Ministry voiced concerns about a Georgian military build-up near South Ossetia, saying on Thursday that it looked like preparations for war.

AP