Before I answer the question you put to me, I would like to express, on behalf of the American people, our deep condolences to the Russian people for the loss of life at Budennovsk. President Clinton expressed these sentiments earlier. I repeat them now from my heart, as I did privately to Viktor Stepanovich and to President Yeltsin, and as I do to all who are listening. In the aftermath of that tragedy, Viktor Stepanovich was confronted with a situation which he handled in a way which you now ask me to assess. When I arrived at the airport two days ago, I addressed this question by quoting one of the greatest writers in the history of the United States, Ernest Hemingway, who wrote that the definition of courage is very simple.
Courage is grace under pressure.
I believe that, by that definition, Viktor Stepanovich, working with close and continuing consultations with President Yeltsin, demonstrated courage. In doing so, he saved the lives of thousands of people and opened a new avenue toward potential resolution of the crisis in Chechnya. I discussed this with him and with President Yeltsin and repeated the urging of President Clinton that this new potential for solving the crisis through talks be fully explored and successfully explored. Viktor Stepanovich, the vice president's office says here that President Yeltsin has signed a decree offering certain joint ventures in the oil sector exemptions from the oil export tax. And OPIC has the authority to act in accordance with the law establishing it, and every proper step has been taken to assure that projects supported by OPIC meet the standards of the law.