(13 Jan 1995) Russian/Nat
The Russian army pounded the centre of Grozny with shells and rockets Friday, trying to wear down rebel Chechen troops still holding key positions in the shattered capital.
With Russian armour pouring in, both sides in the battle now expect the city to fall soon.
Russian commanders appear to be using their massive artillery strength to try to break the Chechen resistance and clear the way for Russian ground attacks. There was fierce fighting around the railway station and the presidential palace was again hit by
concentrated fire.
It was the second day of the major bombardment, with dozens of rockets slamming into southern districts of the city where Chechen fighters were concentrated.
Russian armoured columns with dozens of vehicles were again seen Friday moving up to Grozny.
Russian troops to the north of Grozny say they are confident of taking the city within the next few days.
Chechen fighters say they still hold the presidential palace, the symbol of their independence, but admit it is difficult to get supplies through to the defenders still inside the ruined building.
Many Chechen fighters are sheltering in basements and tunnels in the city centre. They are tired but say they are determined to continue fighting.
The streets of Grozny, once a city of 400,000, are almost empty.
One of the few remaining civilians had bitter words about Russian President Boris Yeltsin.
SOUNDBITE:
(RUSSIAN)
" Look how many have died, how many are laying in the streets, what has he (Yeltsin) done? Is he a human being or what is he? Isn't there one sensible, clever, person who can
say to him What are you doing, you idiot! Snap out of it! Wake up, idiot!"
SUPER CAPTION: Sargan Hadjibaeva, Grozny resident
This old couple were arguing about whether or not to leave. The husband insisted they should abandon their flat and go. His wife said she couldn't leave their carpets and other possessions behind. In the end, he left and she stayed.
The Russians, previously based in the north of the city, seem to be pushing south to completely encircle the presidential palace.
The Chechens claim that Russian have suffered heavy casualties, but it's hard to see how the outgunned and outmanned rebel forces can hold out for much longer.
Find out more about AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
Twitter: [ Ссылка ]
Facebook: [ Ссылка ]
Instagram: [ Ссылка ]
You can license this story through AP Archive: [ Ссылка ]
