Russia dismisses western criticism of campaign in Chechnya

Russia has dismissed criticism of its military campaign in Chechnya, and has continued its intense bombardment of the capital Grozny. The population of the city has been told to get out by Saturday or be killed. The IMF has announced that it is holding back on an instalment of a loan to Russia, although it is not clear if the move is linked to the Chechen crisis. Tonight the United States said it would not reduce its bilateral aid programme as this would not be in US interests.

Earlier, Russia's Prime Minister, Vladimir Putin, said that if certain foreign leaders are really so concerned about Moscow's offensive in Chechyna, they should direct their comments not only at Russia but also at Chechen separatists. President Clinton has warned Russia that it will pay a heavy price for its actions in Chechnya. Speaking in Washington, the US leader criticised Moscow's ultimatum to residents of Grozny. President Clinton said that the offensive would deepen anti-Russian feeling in the region and erode Russia's standing abroad. A Russian spokesman said that Mr Clinton's remarks were unfortunate and would not deter Russia from pressing ahead with its planned assault.

A day after Russia warned the people of the Chechen capital, Grozny, to leave or face death, there has been little indication of the impact of the ultimatum on the lives of the estimated 40,000 citizens still in the city. It is believed that many in Grozny may be unaware of the Russian threat as they have been sheltering below ground cut off from communications. Some are infirm and unable to move and others have no transport. Guy Willoughby, Director of the Halo organisation, one of the few agencies still in Chechnya, says it is not only the number of civilians remaining in the city that is worrying but the type of weapon that the Russians could use when they attack.