U.S.-NATO TALKS.

Although the Clinton Administration attaches great importance to the signing of a "charter" agreement between Russia and NATO, top U.S. officials reportedly made clear on January 9 Washington’s insistence that NATO proceed with enlargement this summer regardless of whether that agreement is finalized by then with Moscow. The U.S. position was elaborated by the U.S. president and other top officials during talks with NATO secretary-general Javier Solana in Washington. On January 19 Solana is to begin negotiations with Russia on the charter. (UPI, January 9; Itar-Tass, January 10)

Oil Slick Threatens Japanese Nuclear Plants.