The aim of the U.N. operation is to demilitarize the area voluntarily within 30 days after troops are fully deployed and then build up administration until the region reverts to Croatia.

CNN: U.N. could send troops to Slavonia

Klein's estimation was crucial because the council must decide on the size and shape of the operation by Monday, when the U.N. mandate for Croatia expires.

CNN: U.N. could send troops to Slavonia

For one thing, the 1, 500-strong "Task Force 72, " part of the international peacekeeping operation in East Timor, has been receiving plenty of favorable reports from the U.N.

CNN: A Fresh Approach