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

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

13.   In a heated confrontation between Nadig and Austrian alpine director Hans Pum during the pre-season FIS press conference, Nadig eventually softened his statements.

14.   In a heated confrontation between the two officials during the conference, Nadig eventually softened his statements.

15.   Nadig later softened his statement, saying he just wanted to provide his team with the same techniques.

16.   Nadig later softened his statement, saying he was just curious so he could provide the same methods to his team.

17.   The statement was softened before it was passed and included no threats of sanctions or other measures.