Russian Federation
President Vladimir Putin
The Russian Federation has fought two wars with separatist rebels in the state of Chechnya. The first lasted from 1994 to 1996 and ended with a ceasefire and local elections. The second Chechen war began in 1999 and continues to this day. Vladimir Putin has served as President of the Russian Federation since December 31, 1999. The following is excerpted from a September 4, 2004, address by President Putin to the Russian people.Speaking is hard. It is painful.A terrible tragedy has taken place in our world. Over these last few days, each and every one of us has suffered greatly…
