World IN BRIEF : WASHINGTON, D.C. : Congress Approves Soviet Aid Package

House and Senate negotiators approved a $500-million aid package to help reduce the Soviet nuclear arsenal and feed the Soviet republics this winter. The package, which trimmed $200 million from a measure passed by the Senate, was included in a supplemental appropriations bill that lawmakers were rushing to complete before Congress adjourns for the year. The legislation would give President Bush discretionary authority to divert up to $400 million from the defense budget to assist the Soviets in dismantling thousands of tactical nuclear weapons. It also authorizes Bush to spend up to $100 million from the defense budget to airlift food and medicines to the Soviet Union this winter.