16:55, 2 February 2004

64% of Russians convinced war in Chechnya continues

64% of Russians are convinced that the war in Chechnya is continuing compared to 59% in December, according to a recent VTsIOM survey. Only 26% say live in Chechnya is becoming more peaceful down from 28% in December.

66% say it is time to begin peace talks, while only 20% are convinced that military activity should be continued. In regard to the goals of the Russian authorities in Chechnya, 40% say they are preserving Russia's territorial integrity, 34% answer they are waging war on international terrorism, 27% respond the authorities are reestablishing constitutional law in Chechnya, 21% say they are providing security to the other Russian regions, 18% answer the government is pursuing self-interests of a few individuals, and 9% say it is demonstrating greatness and strength of the Russian power.

The survey was conducted among 1601 respondents in 40 regions of Russia from January 23 to January 26, 2004.

Editors note: See also the article "Most Russians believe Chechen war is still going on".

Source: Rosbalt News Agency