Chechnya

1. A predominantly Muslim region in southern Russia , which declared its independence from Russia after the breakup of the Soviet Union . After unsuccessfully invading Chechnya in 1994, Russia renewed its attack in 1999 and took the capital city, Grozny. But Chechen guerrillas ( see guerrilla warfare ) continue to harass Russian troops in Chechnya. Russians believe that Chechens have been behind terrorist attacks in Moscow . ( See terrorism .) Most nations recognize Chechnya as part of Russia.