The Chechen Parliament Attack and the Militant Escalation

Five armed militants successfully penetrated the Chechen parliament building compound in the republic's capital, Grozny. The attack used tactics not seen in the city since the last Chechen war some 10 years ago. The change in tactics serves as a statement from Chechen militant leader Hussein Gakayev that Chechen militants are firmly under his control and are returning to more aggressive tactics. Whether he delivers on this message depends upon whether he can withstand Moscow's response, however.