Putin Inspects Chechen Troops Preparing for Combat Against Ukraine

Photo : Reuters

On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov conducted an inspection of Chechen troops and volunteers who are being prepared to fight in Ukraine. This visit marks Putin’s first trip to the North Caucasus republic in 13 years.

The Kremlin's announcement of this previously unreported visit comes as Russia grapples with intensified conflict. Ukrainian forces recently breached the border in the Kursk region, marking the largest invasion of Russian territory since World War II. In response, Moscow is struggling to regain control and repel the advances.

During the visit, Putin addressed troops at the Russian Special Forces University in Gudermes, Chechnya. He praised the soldiers, acknowledging the risks they face. “As long as we have men like you, we are absolutely, absolutely invincible,” Putin stated. He highlighted the difference between training exercises and the real danger of combat, commending the troops’ dedication and bravery.

Kadyrov, who has been sanctioned by the United States for alleged human rights abuses and for mobilizing Chechen troops to fight Ukraine, briefed Putin on the scale of Chechnya’s involvement. He reported that Chechnya had dispatched over 47,000 troops since the conflict's inception, including about 19,000 volunteers. Kadyrov has often positioned himself as Putin’s loyal supporter, referring to himself as the President’s "foot soldier."

In response to a journalist’s query about Kadyrov’s role, Putin remarked, “If I had more of these foot soldiers, I would be very happy, but even one such foot soldier is worth a lot,” according to RIA news agency.

Prior to his visit to Chechnya, Putin traveled to Beslan in North Ossetia, marking his first visit in at least 16 years. The town was the site of a devastating 2004 school siege by Islamic militants that resulted in over 330 deaths, including 136 children. During his visit, Putin met with the mothers of the victims and described the tragedy as an "unhealed wound" in Russia’s historical memory.

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Putin also used the occasion to address ongoing conflicts, stating that Russia faces threats from both terrorists and those who seek to destabilize the country. He drew a parallel between the fight against terrorism and the current conflict in the Kursk region and Donbas. “We will punish the criminals. There can be no doubt about this,” he assured.

As Russian forces continue their operations in eastern Ukraine, the situation remains fluid and contentious, with significant implications for both regional stability and international relations.