1.   But military analysts, noting that the generals were far removed from the top command, called the sackings routine.

2.   But the elected politicians would not be allowed to exercise their constitutional right to remove the general from office.

3.   Russian press reports said Defense Minister Igor Rodionov is removing generals who oppose reductions.

4.   Russian press reports said he is removing generals who oppose reductions.

5.   Some other senior generals have been removed, reportedly because Rodionov wanted to replace them with his appointees.

6.   The Kremlin removed the general commanding its forces in Chechnya on Friday and replaced him with an officer who has specialized in fighting organized crime.