Crossword Genius

Mess initially put together by soldiers (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

snafu

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'mess' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

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(Other definitions for snafu that I've seen before include "Chaotic situation" , "confused activity" , "Slangy acronym meaning in total confusion" , "Chaos (US slang)" , "Chaotic state, mess" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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