New York Times

7 December 1999

Here is the text of a leaflet to civilians dropped by Russian forces on

Monday on Grozny, the besieged Chechen capital, as translated by The New

York Times.

Residents of the city of Grozny! Russian troops are completing the

encirclement of the city. In order to avoid civilian casualties, we propose

that you leave the city of Grozny before December 11, 1999. Use any means

possible. The Command of the Combined Group of Russian Forces has set up a

checkpoint for civilians in Pervomayskoye, and a tent camp has been set

up so

you can settle in Znamenskoye. You are guaranteed all constitutional rights.

After the completion of the counter-terrorism operation you will be able to

return to your homes. Do not give in to the provocations of the terrorists

and the bandits. Do not allow them to use you for their purposes. Only in

this way will you be able to avoid death and save your city. Remember,

preservation of life and the provision of security for the civilian

population is the main task of the Russian troops.