On 20 December 2007 the government set an ultimatum for the peace talks to conclude by 31 January 2008, threatening that a new military offensive otherwise.[37] The death of Vincent Otti, confirmed in mid-January 2008, was reported to threaten the success of the talks.[38] Talks resumed on 30 January 2008, and the ceasefire was extended until 29 February 2008.[39] The European Union and the United States joined the negotiations, increasing the number of observers to eight.[40]