Former Clinton officials say their decision was based in science.

Clinton officials are well aware of the contradictions and pitfalls.

The briefings alone, one Clinton official said, are "more than we ever got in 1992."

In the process the program unwittingly makes some former Clinton officials look silly.

But until now Clinton officials had not discussed exactly how to carry out the pledge.

Clinton officials say the charter gives Russia no such veto.

Even on the missile issue, the administration seems to be driving a harder bargain than Clinton officials did.

Clinton officials should in any event have known better than to expect honor from the Haitian military.

Clinton officials believed they were within striking distance of an accord.

Up to now Clinton officials have been loath to speak on this subject.