DATE=1/30/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=RUSSIA - CHECHNYA - FIGHTING (L)
NUMBER=2-258576
BYLINE=BILL GASPERINI
DATELINE=MOSCOW
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: There are conflicting reports about whether
some Chechen fighters have
surrendered to Russian troops in Grozny, the embattled
capital of Chechnya....where heavy fighting continues
without let-up. Bill Gasperini reports from Moscow.
TEXT: The Kremlin claims that more than 50 Chechens
surrendered to a pro-Russian Chechen militia in
Grozny.
Government spokesman Sergei Yastrzhembsky said the men
decided it was impossible to continue fighting and
wanted to take advantage of an amnesty.
But Mr. Yastrzhembsky based his report on claims made
by an ex-convict Chechen who leads a militia which is
working alongside the Russians.
And Chechens on the rebel side say that no such
surrender took place.
The conflicting claims come as Russian troops continue
trying to advance toward the center of Grozny.
Fierce fighting is reported near Minutka Square, a
strategic location which the Russians originally said
was under their control more than a week ago.
Territory often switches hands as the Russians pull
back to more fortified
positions at night, when Chechen fighters can strike
more easily.
The fighters have good mobility due to underground
tunnels, allowing them to
surface and even strike Russian soldiers from the
rear.
The battle for Grozny has been underway for well over
a month, and there are few signs it will end anytime
soon.
In the Caucasus Mountains to the south, Russian
aircraft and artillery have been pounding Chechen
positions.
But little movement is reported on the ground there,
where the Chechen fighters also have advantages
operating in the rugged terrain.
Russia has vowed to continue the war effort in spite
of mounting casualties and criticism from the
international community about human rights abuses.
(Signed)
NEB/BG/PLM
30-Jan-2000 06:44 AM EDT (30-Jan-2000 1144 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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