Western diplomats here described the row as a disaster for both governments.

Western diplomats described the statement as conciliatory and a good first step.

A senior Western diplomat described the presentation as "pretty compelling."

American officials had made contact with insurgent groups before, but the diplomat described the new engagement as much more significant.

A Western diplomat in the group described defenses as nil.

Diplomats described the meetings as a chance to discuss grievances and clear the air.

Diplomats described the talks as exploratory and did not expect any sudden results.

Another diplomat described the situation today as "inchoate and mysterious."

The Russians offered a separate set of proposals, which diplomats described in interviews.

Diplomats on both sides described the accord as a breakthrough in the relationship between the two old rivals.