21.   In its weakened state, Russia is in no position to directly confront the West despite its anger over the strikes.

22.   In its weakened state, Russia is in no real position to directly confront the West despite its collective anger over the strikes.

23.   They have repeatedly expressed the fear that such an infection could prove fatal for the premier in his weakened state.

24.   Fellow Democrat Charles Rangel brushed aside suggestions that his party might actually prefer to see Gingrich re-elected, since he would assume the post in a weakened state.

25.   Medical officials say that the weakened state of most of the protesters means that without water they could die within a day or two.