Killing of Chechen leader was "crime" -Poland

[NNN0LHI]

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/L09657284.htm

WARSAW, March 9 (Reuters) - Poland on Wednesday condemned the killing of Chechen guerrilla chief Aslan Maskhadov by Russian forces as a "crime" and said it was a mistake because he was the only rebel leader able to reach peace with Moscow.

"Those who committed this murder wanted to prevent a (peaceful) agreement," foreign ministry spokesman Aleksander Checko said. "It was not only a crime but also political stupidity and a big mistake."

Poland, the biggest European Union member among the former Soviet satellites in central Europe, has long been critical of Russia's tough line in Chechnya and has sheltered some Chechen refugees from the conflict.

Russian special forces killed Maskhadov on Tuesday in a village near the Chechen capital Grozny.

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Wasn't this guy responsible for the Belsen School Massacre in Russia?

[Avalux]

1. From what I've read -

he was not directly responsible, but his 'troops' performed the massacre and he should have tried to stop it.

Also heard the same sentiments on NPR this morning - Maskhodov was probably the only person who could have reached an agreement with Moscow.

[NNN0LHI]

3. Then if what you have read is true (and I don't doubt it is)...

...he would be considered a terrorist by US or western standards. Wouldn't he be?

Don

[tom_paine]

2. Naive little Poland understands NOTHING about BushPutinism

They do not understand that they are once again, trapped between Hitler and Stalin, even if they are Kinder and Gentler Soulmates than the originals.

Poor Poland, get ready because the honeymoon between 21st Century Hitler and Stalin won't last much longer than the honeymoon between the originals.