Russia: July 2, 2003

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Chechnya has a population of some 700,000 people, and at least several hundred of them are diehard rebels, intent on getting the Russians out. They are not having much success. Most rebel activity is now directed at Chechens who are working for the Russians, and largely running the government in Chechnya. As expected, this is turning into a civil war, with Chechens fighting to determine if there will be peace, or continued fighting (in Chechnya and neighboring areas.) One or two people die from rebel violence each day. Russia has apparently convinced the majority of Chechens to police themselves, creating increasing fighting between pro and anti Russian Chechens.