21.   But if the Americans want to retain influence with the Kurds, they have little choice but to work with Barzani.

22.   But he retains influence, and his deputies based in Pale have a strong grip on official TV and most other institutions.

23.   But his government has struggled to control a military that retains overwhelming influence in national affairs and critics say he has made little progress battling poverty and crime.

24.   But like many parts of Afghanistan, local warlords retain strong influence and tribal resentments often lead to tension and confrontation.

25.   But Singirok appears to retain influence over the army.

26.   By engaging with Iran, a major and influential player in the region, Moscow also retains powerful influence in the Gulf and beyond.

27.   Chan dismissed Singirok, but the fired officer appears to retain influence over the military.

28.   Chan dismissed Singirok, but the fired officer appeared to retain influence over the military.

29.   During the fighting, the Croats were supported by Tudjman, and he retains strong influence over Bosnian Croats.

30.   He has largely dropped from sight, but retains influence.