The committee is considering a nonbinding resolution to back the alternative peace plan negotiated by the U.S. and Russian legislators in Vienna. The blueprint mirrors many of NATO's demands, but would also give both Russia and China a say in the composition of a peacekeeping force and calls for an end to NATO's bombing campaign and attacks by Kosovo's rebels. Both the proposal, and the manner in which it was negotiated, caused some sparks at the day's committee hearing.
Federal law prohibits private citizens from negotiating with foreign governments.
That remark prompted angry responses from committee Republicans and one Democratic member of the delegation that met with the Russians. The State Department has publicly maintained that it opposes such free-lance peacemaking missions. Albright met the Weldon delegation Wednesday. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The vote database is searchable by name, zip code, date or subject.