Mozdok - Russian President Vladimir Putin blamed lax discipline for the recent heavy losses suffered in Chechnya, during an urgent meeting at a military base in the North Caucasus last night.
"Many of the losses could have been avoided in Chechnya with better discipline, professionalism and responsibility," Putin told top military and civilian figures gathered in Mozdok, North Ossetia, Interfax reported.
A leading Russian official said yesterday he saw no quick end to fighting in Chechnya as Moscow's forces, ordered to shoot on sight during an overnight curfew, redoubled efforts to hit back at separatist rebels.
