21.   Despite the last-minute political manoeuvering, Russian planes and artillery pounded Grozny in apparent preparation for a full assault.

22.   The Taliban Islamic militia were Saturday reinforcing positions on the frontlines north of Kabul in apparent preparation for a renewed offensive.

23.   The Bosnian army sent troops to a battle zone northwest of Sarajevo Thursday in apparent preparation for an offensive.

24.   The grass was freshly cut, wooden posts erected and barrels of sand set up behind the posts to stop stray bullets, in apparent preparation for an execution.