In the preamble of the resolution, the Security Council reaffirmed that the primary cause of the crisis in Angola was due to the failure of UNITA, under the leadership of Jonas Savimbi, to comply with its obligations under the Accordos de Paz, Lusaka Protocol and relevant Security Council resolutions. There was concern about the impact on the population and the provision of military assistance, including mercenaries, to UNITA. The Secretary-General Kofi Annan had made recommendations regarding the improvement of sanctions against UNITA.