Akhmed Zakayev, a London-based representative for Chechen insurgents, has denied accusations that he was behind an attack on Chechnya’s parliament that killed six people, Ekho Moskvy radio reported Wednesday.
Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov blamed Zakayev, who is wanted by Russia on separate terrorism charges, for Tuesday’s attack. But Zakayev said he had nothing to do with it.
Earlier news reports said the assault was likely carried out by the Chechen warlord Khusein Gakayev, whom Zakayev pledged allegiance to last week.
Meanwhile, a police officer and three militants were killed Wednesday in a shootout in Kabardino-Balkaria’s capital, Nalchik, and two militants were surrounded and shot dead by Chechen police in Dagestan, Interfax said.
(MT)
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
