#Russia has long been a prison of nations, using force to suppress unique nationalities and cultures.

Nowadays, #Russia consists of 21 national republics and almost 200 ethnic groups, each with its own distinct cultures. The majority of these populations have been subject to attempts to systematically assimilate them. Independent movements are suppressed before they can gain momentum.

Many #Ukrainians – and independence activists fighting for freedom – believe that the #Russian empire will continue its violent expansionism unless it breaks up into its component national parts, when all its cultures and peoples are given self-determination.

The Chechens became the first victims of Russia’s imperial violence in the history of modern #Russia. Few understand this better than Aset Sabb, whose people have struggled for freedom from Russia for generations.