The Chechen War refers to two conflicts between the Russian Federation and the Chechen Republic in the 1990s and early 2000s. The first war began in 1994 when Russia attempted to regain control over Chechnya, which had declared independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The conflict resulted in significant casualties and destruction. The second war started in 1999, following a series of attacks attributed to Chechen militants. Russia aimed to restore its authority in the region, leading to a prolonged military campaign. By the early 2000s, Russian forces had reestablished control, but tensions and violence continued in the area.