11.   Some traders are concerned that if the U.S. trade gap keeps widening, U.S. officials might soften their support for a strong dollar.

12.   U.N. officials softened the ultimatums by giving the Serbs the option of putting the weapons in collection points loosely overseen by peacekeepers.

13.   Under pressure from both opposition lawmakers and secular allies who could withdraw their support, top party officials have softened their backing for the temple.

14.   As pre-summit consultations have gathered steam over the past few weeks, Russian officials have softened their statements on the ABM issue.

15.   Even before the papal visit, however, officials had softened their approach toward religion.

16.   However, Russian officials recently have softened statements on the issue, suggesting new flexibility.

17.   However, Russian officials recently have softened their statements on the issue, suggesting new flexibility.

18.   Russian officials have since softened their tone, stressing they want to have good relations with the United States and Britain.