Supporters of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria gathered in Vienna on September 6 to mark the 35th anniversary of its declaration of independence. Representatives of public and political organizations, ethnic communities, activists, and members of the Ukrainian diaspora participated in the rally.
Supporters of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria gathered in Vienna on September 6 to mark the 35th anniversary of its declaration of independence. Representatives of public and political organizations, ethnic communities, activists, and members of the Ukrainian diaspora participated in the rally.
At Schwarzenbergplatz, demonstrators unfurled a 55-meter Ichkeria flag. Following this, a solidarity motorcade passed through the streets of the Austrian capital.
According to Roza Dunaeva, a human rights activist and representative of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria abroad, the rally participants once again raised the theme of Chechnya's desire for freedom and independence. She called this date "a day of remembrance, dignity, and responsibility to future generations."
"Independence is not a gift, but a struggle for freedom. Freedom cannot be given as a gift – it is defended through courage, unity, and loyalty to one's principles." "That's why, 35 years later, the idea of a free and democratic Chechnya continues to live in the hearts of those who believe in the people's right to freedom, peace, and a dignified future," Dunaeva emphasized.
In Chechnya itself, September 6th is also a holiday—"Day of Civil Accord and Unity"—as a counterweight to the idea of independence from Russia, the futility and perniciousness of which Ramzan Kadyrov and his entourage have long argued for. Speaking at the celebrations in Grozny, the head of the republic congratulated the region's residents and stated that peace, security, and the desire for a dignified future were the foundation of unity.
Some representatives of the Chechen diaspora and activists in various countries continue to annually commemorate important milestones and events in the life of Ichkeria, remaining committed to its idea.
Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ichkerians have also actively organized and participated in protests against Russian aggression.