[LS]

Putin did the right thing. The author is right that the Russkies simply aren't as efficient or well trained as we are, but make no mistake: there was no other solution in this than the death of all or most of the terrorists. I hope Mr. Putin has finally figured out that Bush's "with us or against us" applied to him, too, and now knows which side of this war he's on.

[demkicker]

This is a tinderbox situation. Putin better handle himself carefully. He hasn't prepared like he should have for terrorist attacks, but he's not about to give into the terrorist demands. Putin just got a swift kick in the ass to get his mess of a country in order. It'll be interesting to watch how his decisions unfold.

[jwpjr]

I agree with your conclusion that there was no other way for this thing to end. IMHO, the terrorists went in there with the idea of prolonging the siege for as long as possible and everybody ending up dead. They had to know that their demands would not be met.

[A Longer Name]

The author is right that the Russkies simply aren't as efficient or well trained as we are.

I wouldn't be so sure about that. Remember Waco?