Friends say that Ms. Rice, a Russia specialist who was schooled in the ways of the cold war, was transformed by the attacks.

Still, Russia specialists say his involvement in Ukraine in his most serious offense yet in American eyes.

His memories would have a profound effect on his son, who became a Russia specialist and fluent Russian speaker.

But some Russia military specialists are skeptical that a victory can be delivered within the two weeks the commanders have promised, if at all.

Dirck's daughter would later marry the Russia specialist, mayor Nicolaes Witsen.

Condoleezza Rice, a Russia specialist on the National Security Council under President Bush, is his son's chief foreign policy adviser.

Ms. Rice, a former Russia specialist in the previous Bush administration, also ventured into new territory.

Condoleezza Rice, a former top Russia specialist at the National Security Council, coordinates the Bush foreign policy advisory team.

"This is usually one of the most important political decisions made at the outset of a new administration," said one Russia specialist.

That aide was Condoleezza Rice, a Russia specialist who is now national security adviser.