The use of gas by Russian special task forces during the hostages rescue operation is not the main issue of the tragedy in Moscow. The Russian government found itself in a desperate situation when the terrorists installed bombs all over the theater and were ready to explode the site with all the people in the theater. There were practically no options to rescue the hostages and avoid disastrous consequences such as the deaths of many people. However, storming the building allowed the rescue of the lives of 750 hostages while 117 died.
This tragedy became as shocking for Russian people as Sept. 11 for Americans. There are feelings of horror and sadness all over Russia. From now on we should think about the Chechen war every moment of our lives, said popular Russian poet and composer Yuri Shevchuk.
We must do everything possible to stop the escalation of violence between Russians and Chechens. There is no right party at war. There is no justice in killing people.
The Chechen problem is extremely complicated. To solve it Russia definitely needs advice and assistance from other countries and international organizations.
I assure you that the majority of Russian people are eager to live in peace. We suffered too much and lost too many lives in recent years and are tired of deaths and instability.
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