Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said he signed decrees recognising the independence of the two breakaway provinces after appeals by their presidents.

United States President George W. Bush described the decision as irresponsible and demanded it be reversed.

France, Germany and Britain have also condemned Russia's declaration.

Foreign Minister Stephen Smith said he would put Australia's views directly to Russian ambassador Alexander Blokin today. They are expected to meet at noon.

Australia had told Russian diplomats in Moscow and Canberra that the declaration could be seen to be provocative.

Mr Smith said Australia respected Georgia's territorial integrity and that message would be put directly to the ambassador.

''The declaration overnight by Russian President Medvedev I don't believe is a helpful contribution, indeed some may regard that as provocative,'' he said.

''I don't think it helps circumstances in Georgia and I don't think it helps relationships generally between Russia and the rest of the world.

''Australia respects the territorial integrity of Georgia and our ongoing position is that we believe that Russia should abide by the ceasefire effected through the European Union and [French] President [Nicolas] Sarkozy and return its forces to the positions they occupied on August 6 and 7.''

Brazilian External Relations Minister Celso Amorim, in Canberra yesterday for talks with Mr Smith, said his nation backed moves by Mr Sarkozy to broker a ceasefire and start dialogue.