But a recent series of military advances by government forces may mean the war is nearing a decisive phase.
Ladislaus captured Zadar in 1403, but soon stopped any military advance.
Even now, as Baghdad falls after three weeks of startling military advance, one can go on choosing among images and reference points.
A bunker may be hastily assembled as part of an ongoing military advance, or to hold a line.
"One car alone will not be mistaken for a major military advance that would get a lot of attention."
If civilians want to remain where they are and do not impede a military advance, they can stay, he said.
It's one of the damned military advances which won their wars for them.
Poland was the first country which successfully stopped a communist military advance.
Armies relied on its people and rough terrain to achieve military advances.
But without a diplomatic solution, they say, the military advance must continue.