Author Description

The American-lead war on terrorism has seemingly vindicated Russia's previously criticised actions against Chechen separatists. In the face of international pressure to respect human rights and seek as peaceful solution to the question of Chechnya, Russian officials has consistently characterised Chechen Islamic militants as terrorists who have to be stopped at all costs. With the West now focused on its own Islamic problem, the Chechnya conflict has come to be seen as a legitimate response to terror; at last, public criticism from Western officials has been muted. In light of the conflict's renewed significance, this book addresses the history, current status and implications of Russia's military action in its rebellious province. Do the Chechens have a valid grievance against Russia? Is the Russian response to military appropriate? Together the papers in this book begin to answer these and other questions about the battle over Chechnya.