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TITLE: Russian Defense Secretary Admits Pathetic Condition of Troops |
AUTHOR: |
PUB: Qoqaz Net |
DATE: January 8, 2001 |
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The Russian secretary of defense has briefed the Russian president on the feeble condition of the forces in Chechnya. The secretary insisted that Russia abandons the fighting and looks for another option. He admitted that the Mujahideen have become proficient in executing their lightening attacks, which are taking a great toll on the Russian forces. In a separate statement, the Russian-appointed mayor of Grozny, Bislan Gantamirov, said that the Russians will not be able to eliminate the Mujahideen. The Russians have not scored a single significant victory against the Mujahideen, he said. Meanwhile a spokesman for the Russian government has made false claims that the Chechen people have become accustomed to the Russian presence, and are friendly with the soldiers, assisting them, and wanting them to stay. The truth of the matter, is that the Chechens have not let a day go by without demonstrating against the Russian presence in Chechnya, and demanding its unconditional withdrawal. In fact, the division between the soldiers and the citizens is a huge one, and continues to grow. The War Has Just Begun, says Basayev The commander of the MMCC, Shamil Basayev says the war in Chechnya has only just begun. In an interview conducted by Georgian television, Basayev said that the Russian "special operations" against the Mujahideen have all failed miserably. The Russian army can repeat the operations, he said, but they would still not succeed against the Mujahideen. Basayev said that Mujahideen field commanders hold positions in every district in Chechnya. He also spoke about the escalating Russian losses, which are enormous in comparison to those of the Mujahideen. Georgian TV reported that Basayev's health is very good, all Praises are due to Allah. The loss of his leg has not impeded his movements at all, and he is able to ride a horse, meet with field commanders, work at his computer, and conducts the war, using satellite phones. Georgian-Russian relations are expected to deteriorate as a result of the interview with Basayev. Mujahideen Execute Huge Operation Five Mujahideen ambushed a Russian convoy in Shali, using landmines to detonate a BTR, a Jeep, and an UZAK. All occupants were killed. The Mujahideen then showered another UZAK with machinegun fire, after which Chechen police arrived on the scene to assist the Russians. The policemen were met with their share of machinegun fire, and a number of them were wounded. The Mujahideen returned to their bases safely, by the Grace of Allah. END |