TALK OR BALK?…

Jaw-jaw or war-war? Palaver or cadaver? A swirl of rumor suggests that negotiations between President Vladimir Putin and Chechen President Aslan Maskhadov are underway and may be well advanced. Events on the ground give less cause for hopes of peace. Recent headlines leave readers befuddled:- April 11: Spokesman says Kremlin in contact with Maskhadov.- April 12: “Criminal” Maskhadov could get amnesty, Kremlin sources say.- April 17: Military phase over, political phase has begun, says foreign minister.- April 18: Main rebel groups defeated “decisively,” Russian general claims.- April 19: Military sources say rebel forces still number 3,000.- April 19: Rebel forces well armed, experienced, says security chief.- April 21: Maskhadov orders cease-fire, cites Moscow peace feelers.- April 21: Press ministry threatens paper that published Maskhadov statement.- April 21: Putin to Maskhadov: lay down your arms, release your hostages, turn over the terrorists.- April 23: Maskhadov denies cease-fire story. Russian convoy hit, fifteen dead.