51.   The separatists want independence, while Moscow insists the republic must remain part of Russia.

52.   The two republics remain quite hostile toward each other despite the end of large-scale bloodshed, and armed attacks are frequent along the border.

53.   The treaty has been endorsed by Yeltsin and Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin, but both have voiced reservations and insisted that the rebel republic must remain part of Russia.

54.   However, the Islamic republic remains suspicious of the United States, which provided the military firepower for the Northern Alliance to topple the Taliban.

55.   Both sides are still far apart on the status issue, with the Chechens demanding independence and the Russians insisting that the republic remain part of the Russian Federation.

56.   The separatists say they have won independence and demand recognition from Moscow, but Russia insists that the republic remains part of the federation.

57.   Under the accord, the two republics will remain in the union for a period of three years after which they can opt out.

58.   Ukrainian lawmakers reiterated Wednesday their demand that Crimea scrap the secessionist constitution and stated that the republic remained an integral part of Ukraine.

59.   Moscow has insisted all along that the republic must remain part of the Russian federation.

60.   On Saturday, he insisted the breakaway republic should remain subject to Russian law until such time as its final status is agreed.