Number: RL32272
Title: Bringing Peace to Chechnya? Assessments and Implications
Authors: Jim Nichol, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: A consistent theme of U.S. and other international criticism of Russia is that Russian troops use excessive and indiscriminate force to quell separatism in Chechnya and commit serious human rights abuses. Several analysts have discerned a decrease in Bush Administration criticism of Russian policy in Chechnya, perhaps spurred to some degree by the Moscow theater hostage crisis and stepped-up terrorist bombings and armed attacks throughout Russia in 2003-2004. U.S. concerns before the Iraq conflict with gaining Russias support also may have contributed to the shifts. There appeared to be fewer Administration suggestions to Russia that it should open peace talks with former Chechnya leader Aslan Maskhadov, more tolerance for Russias argument that it was battling terrorism in Chechnya, and some hope that elections and rebuilding in Chechnya could contribute to a political settlement. But some in the Administration also argue that Russia is showing declining interest in the adoption of Western democratic and human rights values, and that such slippage could ultimately harm bilateral relations. Consolidated Appropriations for FY2005, including foreign operations (H.R. 4818; P.L. 108-447) continues a provision first included in FY2001 appropriations that cuts aid to Russia unless the President determines that Russia is not hampering access to Chechnya by non-governmental organizations (NGOs). One issue for the 109th Congress is whether to continue this ban in FY2006 legislation.
Pages: 20
Date: March 31, 2006