Russia: July 14, 2000

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Chechen rebels remain defiant, and rebel leaders continue to provide convincing photo opportunities and interviews for the world media. Russia admits that they are losing at least several dozen dead each month, although the rebels insist that the death toll is much higher. The rebels are taking advantage of the Summer foliage to operate in small units out in the mountains. They travel light and use a series of bases in villages where food and ammunition is hidden. Commercially available walkie-talkies, the internet and cell phones proved communications. However, since Russian electronic warfare units are monitoring these devices, the rebels also use messengers and careful planning to avoid Russian easedropping. The rebels have also offered to enter into peace talks, but this is seen an another tactic to improve their battlefield situation..