Statement by the Campaign to Stop the War in Chechnya

We, the undersigned, condemn the Russian invasion of Chechnya. We call for the immediate withdrawal of all Russian forces, and for the recognition of the Chechens' right to self-determination.

The war is not a response to “Chechen terrorism”. It is an attempt to divert attention away from the social and economic crisis in Russia. Its goals are to restore the standing of the military in Russian society, and to secure Russian control of the oil and gas pipelines running through Chechnya.

In Russia, the war has triggered a wave of chauvinism and anti-Chechen racism. In Chechnya, the war is being waged on the basis of a scorched earth policy and disregard for civilian casualties.

Placing no faith in the half-hearted and hypocritical criticisms voiced by US and European governments against Russian aggression in Chechnya, we call for the labour movement in Britain (and internationally) to build links with socialist and trade union anti-war initiatives in Russia and to campaign for Russian military withdrawal from Chechnya and recognition of the right to self-determination for Chechnya.

If you agree with this statement, please contact Caroline at <cwsc@cwsc.fsnet.co.uk>, visit <http://www.cwsc.fsnet.co.uk> or write to Box R CWSC, 46 Denmark Hill, London SE5, England.

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