Chechnya's pro-independence President Aslan Maskhadov confirmed this morning his representative had held exploratory talks with Russian authorities but insisted the rebels would not lay down their arms.
Chechen rebels launched an overnight attack on Russian positions in the southeastern town of Kurchaloy, with deaths reported on both sides.
Last night’s talks followed a 72-hour ultimatum on Monday by Russian President Vladimir Putin for Chechen rebels to discuss laying down their arms and returning to civilian life.
Fewer than a dozen weapons had been handed over by the time the ultimatum expired on Thursday night.
"We took up arms to defend ourselves and will only lay them down when we have received dependable guarantees of our safety," Mr Maskhadov said. "Until now I do not see such guarantees."
AFP