81.   The systematic destruction of Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, has increased the uneasiness which has existed since the start of the Russian offensive in December.

82.   There were reports part of the Russian offensive was bogging down, blocked by bad weather and angry civilians.

83.   Their comments suggest scant hope for reviving a cease-fire accord that has crumbled in the face of a fierce Russian offensive launched after the presidential election earlier this month.

84.   There have been other complaints of human rights abuses in the Russian offensive in Chechnya, including reports of summary executions of civilians in Grozny, the Chechen capital.

85.   Thousands of people have been killed and wounded since the Russian offensive began.

86.   WASHINGTON -- Even as planning moves ahead for President Clinton to visit Moscow in May, U.S. officials are examining reports of a new Russian military offensive in Chechnya.

87.   Washington already has harshly criticized the latest Russian offensive, and U.S. Vice President Al Gore plans to deliver a message of disapproval during his current stay in Moscow.

88.   He also ruled out accelerating the expansion of NATO in reaction to the Russian offensive on secessionist Chechnya.

89.   He was said he was acting in retaliation for a Russian offensive in the breakaway Caucasus republic.

90.   However the Russian offensive against separatist positions has increased in intensity since the peace plan was announced.