1991–1996: crisis and first war
After the Soviet collapse, a declaration of independence deepened political and legal confrontation with Moscow. The December 1994 Russian intervention became full-scale war. Grozny was devastated; the August 1996 Khasavyurt arrangements ended this phase.
1999 and after: second war
Events in 1999 triggered a new campaign; Grozny again endured bombardment and ground combat. Major battles declined after 2000, but insurgency, security operations, disappearances and alleged rights violations continued for years. One neat end date can mislead.
Civilians and memory
Counts of deaths, disappearances and displacement vary by source and definition. Rather than present one number as final, explain differences among UN, rights groups, scholarship, official records and testimony. Use consent and careful language for images and personal stories.