But other Russian analysts, looking ahead, said Mr. Assad's death could open a window to a more confident search for peace.

It was the score for his short program that most Russian analysts say ultimately deprived him of the highest medal.

Some Russian analysts had predicted a power struggle between the two.

It is a major battle between two economic cultures: what Russian analysts have labeled "great-power statist" versus the "liberal-oligarchic."

All this gave Russian analysts strong grounds for claiming the visit had yielded many practical results as well as an impetus for increased co-operation.

Russian analysts said that Pyongyang's decision to test-fire a missile sent a hawkish message to the international community.

Most Russian political analysts think that the turnout will be high enough - perhaps 60 percent or so - and that the constitution will be adopted.

Most Russian political analysts agree that bleak times lie ahead for Europe.

But suggestions that Russia would back China in an attack on Taiwan are far-fetched, Russian analysts said.

And despite Mr. Chernomyrdin's open ambition to run for President in the 2000 elections, many Russian analysts have written him off as a political force.