Kuchmas Dictum
by Jacques Evans
Category: Fiction

A former Russian paratroop commander, Colonel Yuri Vitrenko, attempts to terrorize the United States into withdrawing its troops from Europe so Russia can have a free hand in bringing the break-away republics back into the fold. Vitrenko is part of a military and civilian clique that includes retired Colonel General Alexi Kuchma. The general has a large following and is planning to run in the next presidential election. Vitrenko is convinced that getting American troops out of Europe will ensure Kuchma's election. To this end, he devises a series of terrorist plots but does not involve any members of the clique for fear of retaliation against Russia.Vitrenko begins his reign of terror by anonymously notifying the Americans of his intentions if they do not withdraw their troops from Europe. The Americans do not heed his warning. As a result, Vitrenko executes a congressman and a senator. When his next warning is not heeded, Vitrenko downs a Boeing 747 with a missile killing 230 passengers and crew members. The American president devises a strategy to counter Vitrenko's moves. Both politicians' deaths are described as accidental and the downing of Aeroexpress Flight 120 is attributed to a fuel tank explosion. Reluctantly, Vitrenko plans his next move and the plot continues...