41.   But a high-ranking Croatian official, who demanded anonymity, said Croatia cannot accept some points of the plan.

42.   But a high-ranking Croatian official, who demanded anonymity, said Croatia cannot accept some points.

43.   But France has refused to fully back the proposal, expressing concern about which countries would provide ground forces, said a NATO diplomat who demanded anonymity.

44.   But after a concerted lobbying effort by Mexican officials, the EU decided in January to withdraw its offer, a Commission official, who demanded anonymity, said.

45.   But insiders indicated that it did take place and sources who demanded anonymity said the contacts were exploratory and inconclusive.

46.   But Karen leaders expect little to come of the meeting and hope simply to gain time for their cause, said the source, who demanded anonymity.

47.   But the sources, who demanded anonymity, stressed that the policy was tantamount to a cease-fire and could crumble if there were violations from the Israeli side.

48.   But U.N. officials, demanding anonymity, said the rebels agreed Friday to return to talks after the government reportedly offered a cease-fire.

49.   But the official, who demanded anonymity, said progress depended on making headway first between Israel and the Palestinians.

50.   By Thursday noon, NATO had had no new reports on withdrawals, said a NATO official, who demanded anonymity.