DATE=3/8/2000
TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT
TITLE=RUSSIA / CHECHNYA (L)
NUMBER=2-259965
BYLINE=BILL GASPERINI
DATELINE=MOSCOW
CONTENT=
VOICED AT:
INTRO: Russian forces are bombarding a village in
southern Chechnya. Bill Gasperini in Moscow says
there are reports of heavy Russian losses during
fighting with Chechen rebels in the Caucasus Mountain
region.
TEXT: Russian aircraft and artillery are attacking
the village of Komsomolskoye, trying to flush out
hundreds of fighters there.
Komsomolskoye lies near the strategic Argun Gorge that
was the scene of heavy fighting in recent weeks.
Russian troops have repeatedly clashed with groups of
determined rebels, who have long promised to keep up
the fight against Russia. Groups of fighters have
also attacked Russian checkpoints not far from the
Chechen capital, Grozny.
Casualties have mounted, despite frequent Russian
claims that the war is - all but over.
Tuesday, the Kremlin said Russian forces have suffered
heavy casualties recently. As many as 86 paratroopers
were reportedly killed during one clash in the
Caucasus Mountains last week.
Despite the difficulties, Russian military commanders
say they have been ordered to finish operations soon -
- before trees start turning green again and give the
rebels better cover. The Kremlin is also anxious to
declare victory before the presidential election, less
than three-weeks away.
Many analysts say the increasing death toll could hurt
the soaring popularity of Acting President Vladimir
Putin, who is expected to easily win the vote. Mr.
Putin's appeal to the public is largely due to his
tough stand against the Chechens.
With little let-up in the fighting, international
pressure is also increasing to end the war
diplomatically.
A delegation from the Council of Europe is scheduled
to visit Chechnya later this week to investigate
charges of serious human-rights abuses. The council
is Europe's leading human-rights organization. Next
month, it is to consider whether to suspend Russia
because of its Chechnya policy. (SIGNED)
NEB/BG/JWH/RAE
08-Mar-2000 09:16 AM EDT (08-Mar-2000 1416 UTC)
NNNN
Source: Voice of America
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