The United States set the example, is providing billions in aid to Russia, and so it must share responsibility for Russia's genocidal war on Chechnya. Russian authorities accuse Chechen freedom fighters of being responsible for the bombings. A state of emergency could benefit president Yeltsin, who would like to see the December elections postponed until he can ensure a loyal successor. The recent bombings could give him the excuse to do this legitimately. Despite the lack of evidence against the Chechens, Russia launched massive, indiscriminate attacks on Chechnya.
Refugees say people are being killed as they try to flee the Russian bombardment.
An estimated 200,000 refugees have fled to Ingushetia. About 3000 have been killed, and 10,000 wounded. Russian prime minister Vladimir Putin cites the U.S. example to justify the attack on Chechnya. Meanwhile billions in U.S. dollars continue to flow to Russia through the International Monetary Fund. The U.S. accuses bin Laden of masterminding the bombing of U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, but refuses to provide evidence to back its claim.