FYEO continues to follow the convoluted quest for Montenegrin independence. Milo Djukanovic, president of Montenegro, said that given everyone's experience with Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, a "fifith Balkan War cannot be ruled out" if Montenegro pursues independence. Djukanovic said that if Serbia doesn't extend more autonomy to Montenegro "Montenegro will continue to democratize itself as an independent country."

Bulgaria is forming a new Border Police force of 4,000 professionals (i.e., volunteers) to replace the 6,000 conscript troops now assigned to guard the borders. The first posts will be handed over to the police before the end of 1999 and the police will control the entire border sometime in 2001.--Stephen V Cole