GROZNY, Russia, Dec 25 (AFP) - Russian forces have made little progress during the first day of their assault on the Chechen capital Grozny on Saturday, Russian officers said.
"The first day [of the operation] is over. We didn't expect to make any major advances. It was not our plan to take Grozny in a single day," said Capt. Igor Kritsky, an officer with Interior Ministry forces stationed east of the city.
As soon as night fell, the operation to capture the capital of the breakaway Russian republic was suspended, journalists observed.
"Our tactic is to flush out Chechen positions, after which we destroy them. We are carrying out detailed reconnaissance," captain Kritsky added. "There will not be a quick result," said another officer, who asked to remain anonymous.
"Our main objective is to safeguard soldiers' lives. We could make it to the center, but what will we do afterwards? Get fired upon by the Chechens from all sides?" he added.
