Hiding the Booze From Boris
Russian officials were delighted that President Boris Yeltsin got through
last week's visit to Rome without any of the major gaffes that have
become commonplace on his overseas sorties. His hosts were less
impressed. Once known for his grasp of complex briefs in high-level
negotiations, Yeltsin seemed confused during his meetings, officials said, and
reportedly had difficulty telling Italy's Prime Minister, ROMANO PRODI, from
the country's President, OSCAR LUIGI SCALFARO. Though he seemed just a
little stiff during his very limited public appearances, officials say that in private
he walked with difficulty and seemed in danger of losing his balance whenever
he had to turn right or left. The unusual measures reportedly taken by his
security detail before he arrived in Rome suggested that his handlers are worried
about the recurrence of his drinking problem. Before Yeltsin settled into his
suite, officials say, his security men went through the place and removed all
alcohol.