We deny and have always denied having the slightest link with al-Qaeda.

A foreign ideology cannot be introduced into Chechnya - were it through an Arab or al-Qaeda. Our experience is rich and long enough for us to be Muslims and know what jihad is.

There can be no justification for terror against absolutely innocent citizens,

The war is ending, for the first time in the history of relations between Moscow and Grozny, and the era of peace is starting.

I understand you, but I cannot support you.

It is not advantageous for Russia in its present state to fight against Chechnya. The army is a mess. It must be made combat ready. That will take time. Russia has a lot of economic, social and political problems much more important than Chechnya.