According to Civil.ge, the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Georgia has issued a statement in connection to the arrest of the suspect in the attempted May grenade attack on George Bush in Georgia.

“The U.S. Embassy welcomes the news that the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs, through joint efforts with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, diligent detective work, and a strong commitment to solving this case, have taken into custody a suspect in the matter of the hand grenade which was thrown into the crowd during President Bush’s speech on Freedom Square on May 10, 2005.

The U.S. Government appreciates the hard work of the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs and the bravery and dedication of Georgian law enforcement that has brought this man into custody. The level of information exchange, liaison, and expertise displayed were truly a model for international law enforcement cooperation. Casting a shadow over this victory however, is the news that a brave and courageous MOIA Officer lost his life in the process of making this arrest. MOIA Officer Zurab Kvlividze died in the line of duty during this adversarial action and we honor his memory and sacrifice. We express our heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.”

Civil.ge also reports that Arutyunyan has admitted to the attack.

The footage, which was broadcasted by the Georgian television stations, shows Arutunian, who was injured in a shootout with the police on July 20, in his hospital room. When answering the question asked by spokesman of the Interior Ministry Guram Donadze: “Did you toss a hand-grenade?” Arutunian replays: “Yes.”

When asked why he did it, the suspect starts answering: “because Bush…” and then the footage is bleeped out, apparently to censor swearing.

However, considering the fact that earlier reports stated that media access to the suspect in hospital was restricted, I’m not sure I approve of the fact that footage of a confession has been broadcast so soon — and that’s regardless of whether the guy is guilty or not. Eurasianet also has an update on the arrest. RFE/RL also has more details.