21.   But in smaller towns, like Midland, confrontations are unavoidable.

22.   But he said if Russians ultimately reject any missile defense system, a confrontation is likely.

23.   But it is also possible that a confrontation is exactly what the Republic members want.

24.   But many officials say they have a feeling that a major confrontation is in the offing because Japan has drawn the line on trade concessions in the auto area.

25.   But on the ground near Al Arrub on Tuesday, there was fresh confrontation between Palestinians and Israelis.

26.   But Pike, of the Federation of American Scientists, which opposes the anti-satellite effort, said such confrontations were unlikely.

27.   But the confrontation is not over.

28.   But on Friday night, both sides seemed listless, and there was no confrontation.

29.   But outright confrontation is not the goal.

30.   But their confrontation is so abrupt, it makes for a fizzle of a finale rather than a big finish.