180 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government in relation to the Chechen conflict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1281/00]
Written Answers. - Chechen Conflict.
Since early September last year Russian forces have been carrying out a military campaign in Chechnya, following incursions by Chechen rebels into neighbouring Dagestan and a spate of bombing attacks in Russia blamed on the rebels. The capital city, Grozny, and southern Chechnya are now the scene of intense fighting between Russian ground forces and Chechen rebels. Heavy casualties have been suffered by both sides, but independently verified figures are not available. An estimated 20,000 civilians remain in Grozny. According to the UNHCR more than 180,000 displaced people are still in the neighbouring Russian republic of Ingushetia, 140,000 of them accommodated with host families, 25,000 in camps and another 28,000 in makeshift settlements.