RUSSIA: CHECHNYA: RUSSIAN ARTILLERY POUNDS GROZNY

(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