Medvedev On the Latest Terror Attacks and Military Reform!


A helicopter with Dmitry Medvedev on board landed at the central square of Makhachkala, Dagestan in front of the Government headquarters. The head of the Russian state arrived to hold a meeting with the heads of regions of the North Caucasus federal district. The meeting was also attended by presidential envoy in SKFO, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Khloponin, Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliyev and head of the FSB, Alexander Bortnikov. The head of the FSB Bortnikov said that the bomber is already known and that acts are underway to eradicate.

Medvedev said in the meeting that there are five areas of combating terrorism in the North Caucasus:
First – strengthen law enforcement.
Second – “It is necessary to cause sharp dagger blows to the terrorists, to destroy them and their shelters.
Third – Help and protect those who decided to break with the militias.
Fourth – Economic development, education and culture in the region is very important.
Fifth – In addition, Medvedev mentioned the strengthening of moral and spiritual components. “We have more, we are stronger, for us the fate of people, and most importantly – for us the truth,” – said the president.
Medvedev went on to say, “In the Caucasus there is a specificity, and therefore the decisions to be made in the Caucasus, should be treated with special care not to alienate people who are risking their lives,”

He also said, that the reform of the Interior Ministry “should get stronger professional ministry, with other professional staff, other money, the other outfit. “

Then the Military reform in general was discussed. The reforms include:

– Transfer of the military structure with chetyrehzvennoy management system (Military District – Army – Division – Regiment) on a three-tier (district – Operational Command – Brigade);

– Reorganization of the central military command, including the Defense Ministry and General Staff;

– Reduction of the officers, the elimination of the institution of ensigns and warrant officers;

– Creation of a rapid reaction group.

In addition, the reform will to dismantled several military units and institutions. By 2012, the armed forces will be reduced from 1.13 million to 1 million troops, the central office of the Defense Ministry – two and a half times – up to 8 , 5 thousand, and the number of officer positions in the Army and Navy – from the current 355 thousand to 150 thousand.

With regards to the terrorist attacks in Moscow and Dagestan, FSB director Alexander Bortnikov said that the version of the commission of their gangs associated with the North Caucasus, was confirmed. “Personally known to the organizers of recent terrorist attacks, carried out investigative activity, – said Bortnikov. – Obtain certain materials, a number of detained persons are being interrogated, obtained evidence, examination is being conducted…

Windows to Russia!

About the Author