Chechnya Separation Movement and Russia s Response: Focusing on Chechnya War and TERRORISM

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to consider the separation struggle of the Chechen Republic in the Cauca-sus region, which has been under Russian control for more than 200 years, and Russia s response. Chechen wants to get away from the Russian Federation and have their own government. But the Russian federal government does not want to undermine its security interests or economic interests. In this study, we look at the ideologies and strategies pursued by the two forces. Method: In this paper, we explore the political and economic background of the North Caucasus region and the ethnic characteristics of Chechnya, and explore the existing research literature on the two Chechnya wars. Specifi-cally, it considers mountainous peoples, Islamic acceptance, relations with neighboring countries, geologic factors of Chechnya, and the Russian federal government s pressure on the Chechnya Republic. Results: Chechnya has been fighting for independence ever since it came under Russian control. In response, Russia has been consistent with strong military pressure and ethnic oppression rather than a moderate assimila-tion policy. This is because many ethnic groups in Russia were concerned about the departure. The North Cauca-sus region is also located on the border with NATO and Central Asia, which could have a significant impact on Russia s security and economy, so Russia is not giving up the region. Conclusion: Chechnya is linked to direct or indirect interests in Russia and other Western countries, including the Republics of the North Caucasus, Turkey and Central Asian countries, and the United States. Also, the conflict may vary depending on Russia s strategy for Chechnya. Local fighting and terrorism are not expected to end un-less Chechnya s independence is achieved.