Day of Russia reminds of Kadyrov's influence on anti-Russian sentiments

A mass rally with the participation of students and youth activists was held in Grozny, the Chechen capital, on the Day of Russia. Participants told about enforcement to participate in the event.

Among the residents of Chechnya, interviewed by the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent, there were those who do not understand quite well what holiday is celebrated on June 12; and among the participants of the above rally, there were those who declared their forced involvement.

At the moment, Chechnya has no widespread anti-Russian sentiments, Aza Gazieva, a journalist, is sure. In her opinion, the turning point in people's minds happened with the advent of the Chechen President Akhmat Kadyrov to power. However, she admits that some Chechens could preserve their anti-Russian sentiments.

"Now the welcoming atmosphere to anyone who comes to Grozny is restored," Said Bitsoev, a journalist, has added.

Grozny is gradually becoming a city loved by that tourists from all over Russia, Aslanbek Dadaev, a Radio Liberty correspondent, has noted.

In the opinion of Timur Alkhastov, a political analyst, anti-Russian sentiments are cultivated in Moscow by politicians and the media. At the same time, as he said, a visibility of population's loyalty is created in Chechnya.