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Chechens use C-bombs in Grozny, claims Russians

MOSCOW: The Russian military said on Sunday Chechen militants opposing them in the regional capital Grozny had detonated several bombs with toxic substances, but its troops were not affected, Itar-Tass news agency said.

Tass quoted the Russian military command as saying the bombs, supposedly containing chlorine and ammonia, had been detonated overnight and early on Sunday in Grozny's eastern suburbs. It said a greenish cloud caused by the explosions was now hanging over the militant-held city centre, where many civilians are trapped.

It was the third time the Russians had accused the Chechen militants of a chemical attack since they began their operation to try to take control of Grozny a week ago. The Russian military says it is well equipped to face chemical attacks.

NTV television reporting from the outskirts of Grozny said the cloud could be clearly seen over the city.

Russian commanders say their advance in Grozny has been slowed by their attempt to minimise casualties among the troops and the tens of thousands of civilians.

Nevertheless, the recent clashes in the Chechen capital appear to be the heaviest in Russia's three-month onslaught on Chechnya. Tass quoted regional military headquarters as saying eight servicemen had been killed and 16 wounded in the last three days of fighting.-Reuters