The first UN humanitarian convoy to set
off for the Chechen capital Grozny left Stavropol in southern Russia today,
a UN spokesman said. The city is the operational base of the United Nations
High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Ten trucks belonging to EMERCOM, the
Russian emergency logistics ministry, will deliver 45 metric tons of flour,
barley, millet, peas and sugar, he added.
Non-food items carried include 900 pieces of plastic sheeting, 1,323 blankets, 230 mattresses and 10,000 pieces of bath soap. EMERCOM will distribute the UNHCR relief supplies.
The convoy, accompanied by local UNHCR staff, is expected in Grozny on Tuesday.