The image of Chechnya in the West remains one of radicalisation and conflict, unresolved secessionist ambition and Russian brutality. But far more than is generally acknowledged outside Russia, Moscow's policies towards Chechnya have succeeded in their aims. The republic is now relatively peaceful; reconstruction is gaining momentum; and Chechnya's leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, has been both an effective and seemingly faithful servant of Russia in the North Caucasus. However, it would be unwise to assume this represents a long-term solution to the problems in the North Caucasus.