Informed Sources

Cold War Treachery Revealed

BONN -- The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service has handed over a list of about 2,000 names, mostly coded, of western Germans who once served as spies for East Germany's secret police, the infamous Stasi. Experts say some are likely to be prominent figures in politics and industry. "There will be some big scandals. Some names are well known," says a Bundestag source. Chancellor Helmut Kohl, in power since well before unification, may have something to worry about: 19 years ago, West German Chancellor Willy Brandt was forced to resign after just one spy was discovered in his chancellery.

Choosing the AIDS Czar, Clinton-Style

WASHINGTON -- Bill Clinton dallied for months before selecting an AIDS czar, Kristine Gebbie, last Friday. The previous day, members of the National Commission on AIDS visited HHS Secretary Donna Shalala and criticized the Administration bitterly. According to those present, chairman David Rogers said, "I'm incredulous that you could have screwed up so much." Seemingly disconcerted, Shalala periodically left the room. Re-entering for the last time, she said, "Done." An AIDS czar had been chosen.

A Fresh Target for the G.O.P.

WASHINGTON -- Republicans are girding to attack another Clinton nominee on ideological grounds. Morton Halperin is a former American Civil Liberties Union official who, the White House announced, will be nominated for Assistant Secretary of Defense for Democracy and Human Rights. In 1977, Halperin testified on behalf of Philip Agee, a left-wing former CIA officer who faced deportation from Britain. Senators opposed to Halperin include Republicans Trent Lott of Mississippi and Lauch Faircloth of North Carolina. While Halperin is said to be performing outstandingly in his interim Pentagon job, his Democratic support is weak, and sources say Clinton is backing away from him.