Washington confirms reports that Russia has used tactical Scud missiles in its offensive in Chechnya. December 31 Yeltsin announces his resignation and says elections will be held in 90 days for a new president. 27 Assault on Grozny stalls. 26 Russian forces meet stiff resistance but reach Minutka Square near the city centre. 25 Russian forces advance towards the centre of Grozny from several directions.
Officials say the final push has begun.
The Unity party, led by Prime Minister Putin, does unexpectedly well in Duma elections. 17 Russian forces strike into the rebel-held mountains in southern Chechnya in a bid to cut off the rebels' last major supply route. Moscow claims a turning point has been reached as its paratroopers seize control of the Chechen-Georgia border. 16 Russia renews shelling of Grozny fighting after an apparently diasterous ground offensive resulted in the death of more than 100 soliders. 14 Federal military sources announce the first skirmishes between Russian soldiers and Chechen fighters inside Grozny proper.