The second Russo‐Chechen conflict (1999 to date): ‘A modern military operation'?

Abstract

This article argues that the generic post‐Cold War modern operation represents a tentative and self‐reflective endeavour, incorporatifng actions cautiously constructed around considerations of both military efficiency and socio‐political legitimacy. Chechnya 2 demonstrates that Russia's military‐political elite is cognisant of the sensitivity oriented norms and procedures associated with such undertakings, emphasised by Moscow's ongoing efforts to societally legitimize this ‘domestic’ campaign. Nevertheless, given the ‘victory imperative ‘ stemming from the geostrategic significance of the conflict, the lack of viable alternative options, and Russia's military cultural heritage, the protracted venture continues to embody a traditionally insensitive, objective‐oriented military endeavour.