Government troops kept hundreds of Liberians chanting "We want peace, no more war" away from the US assessment team, after they overflowed onto an airport runway in the pouring rain. However, rather than a robust force of combat units, the US presence in Liberia might consist mostly of advisers and trainers to avoid stretching American forces too thinly across the world. US logistical support was also mentioned as desirable by South African President Mbeki. 

Meanwhile, Nigerian President Obasanjo is seeking the approval of his Senate to deploy two battalions (some 1,520 soldiers) to Liberia, as part of his country's contribution to the ECOWAS effort. - Adam Geibel