DATE=1/8/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=RUSSIA PAUSE (L-ONLY)
NUMBER=2-257897
BYLINE=BILL GASPERINI
DATELINE=MOSCOW
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: Russia's Acting President Vladimir Putin says
the replacement of two top generals in Chechnya was a
technical rotation. But the replacement has raised
questions due to problems with the progress of the
military campaign in the breakaway republic.
TEXT: Acting President Putin says the change in
military leadership is not because the government is
unhappy with how they've conducted the war so far.
Speaking to reporters in Moscow, Mr. Putin says the
replacement of the two generals is purely a technical
matter.
However questions have been raised about the sudden
replacement of Lt. General Gennady Troshev and Major
General Vladimir Shamanov.
The two men have been leading Russia's military
campaign against Chechen fighters.
But the offensive has stalled in recent weeks, due
mostly to strong resistance from the Chechens.
Russian forces have been unable to seize the capital
of Grozny despite repeated promises the city would
fall within days.
In another development, Russia has suspended its
fierce air and artillery bombardment of Grozny for the
time being.
Mr. Putin says this is out of respect for Moslem and
Orthodox Christian holidays this weekend.
He also says the halt will allow civilians trapped in
the city to make their way out.
But some analysts believe the pause is really a chance
for Russia to reassess its military strategy in the
embattled region.
Bad weather has complicated the air assault, and the
halt will allow a chance to reorganize and restock
supplies.
Russian forces are also battling the Chechens in the
rugged mountains south of Grozny.
Troops there have reportedly managed to seize some
strategic hills, but the advance against the Chechens
is also said to be slow.
The political stakes in the conflict are high; Mr.
Putin's popularity among the Russian public is mostly
due to perceived success in the Chechen conflict.
With new presidential elections due to be held in late
March, Russia's acting leader would like nothing more
than to claim victory against the
rebellious Chechens.(Signed)
NEB/BG/PLM
TEXT:
NEB/WTW/
08-Jan-2000 06:49 AM EDT (08-Jan-2000 1149 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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