A Tragic Event That Changed Russia

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On October 23, 2002, Chechen militants took over the Dubrovka Theater in Moscow, Russia, holding 850 hostages.

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The militants demanded the withdrawal of Russian forces from Chechya and an end to the Second Chechen War

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The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis

The crisis ended when Russian security forces stormed the theater and killed or captured all of the militants.

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis

However, many of the hostages were also killed, either by the militants or by the effects of the gas that the security forces used to subdue the militants.

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisi

The official death toll was 130 hostages, but some estimates put the number as high as 200.

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis was a major tragedy, and it raised serious questions about the Russian government's handling of the Chechen conflict.

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisi

The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis is a reminder of the devastating consequences of terrorism.

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The Dubrovka Theater Hostage Crisis

It is also a reminder of the importance of resolving conflicts peacefully and of protecting the rights of civilians during hostage situations.

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