DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY
Naval Postgraduate School
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DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY |
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Description
Extremist supporters of deceased former
Georgian President Zviad Gamsakhurdia. Launched a revolt against his
successor, Eduard Shevardnadze, which was suppressed in late 1993. Some
Gamsakhurdia sympathizers formed a weak legal opposition in Georgia, but
others remain opposed to Shevardnadze's rule and seek to overthrow him.
Some Gamsakhurdia government officials fled to Russia following
Gamsakhurdia's ouster in 1991 and were using Russia as a base of
operations to bankroll anti-Shevardnadze activities.
Activities
Conducted bombings and kidnappings. Attempted
two assassinations against Shevardnadze--in August 1995 and in February
1998. Took UN personnel hostage following the attempt in February 1998
but released the hostages unharmed. Zviadists conducted no violent
activity in 1999.
Strength
Unknown.
Location/Area of Operation
Georgia, especially Mingrelia,
and Russia.
External Aid
May have received support and training in
Chechen terrorist training camps. Chechen mercenaries participated in
the assassination attempt against Shevardnadze in February 1998.
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