Moscow To Discuss Disarmament With Rebels
Former Vice Premier of Chechnya Akhmed Zakaev has contacted Russian presidential envoy in the southern federal district Victor Kazantsev. Zakaev has asked for a meeting in Moscow to discuss the procedure of rebels' disarmament and their incorporation into peaceful life in Chechnya, RIA Novosti news agency reported.
According to Kazantsev, Zakaev called him on Wednesday and "after long hesitation" suggested to arrange the meeting. The talks are likely to be held within the next 10 days, Kazantsev said. The Putin's representative stated he welcomed the move and promised to keep journalists informed.
Russian President Vladimir Putin gave Chechen rebels 72 hours to get in touch with Russia's federal authorities in Chechnya to discuss the terms of their disarmament in September. Putin appointed Kazantsev to hold negotiations with Chechen rebels. The offer was mainly ignored.
Russia withdrew its troops from Chechnya in 1996, but the army returned in September 1999, after incursions by Chechen rebels into neighbouring Dagestan and the deaths of some 300 people in apartment bombings that Russian officials blamed on rebels.
Two years into so-called "anti terrorist" campaign, Moscow has established nominal control over the republic, but its troops come under regular attack from Chechen rebels who have split up into small groups hiding in mountains.
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