Russian President Vladimir Putin made an unexpected trip to Chechnya, a predominantly Muslim republic within the Russian Federation, marking his first visit in nearly 13 years. This visit comes as Ukraine's incursion into western Russia continues into its third week.
Upon arrival, Putin was warmly welcomed by Chechnya's leader Ramzan Kadyrov. The Russian President visited a special forces academy named after him and met with volunteer fighters who are being trained before deployment to Ukraine. Putin commended the volunteers, stating that as long as Russia has individuals like them, the country will remain 'invincible.'
