Office of the Historian

239. Circular Telegram From the Department of State to All African Posts1

Washington, August 25, 1964, 8:25 p.m.

364. Department seriously concerned by reported broadcasts from Albertville indicating Europeans held in city by rebel forces will be massacred if ANC retakes city.

This further substantiates earlier report that rebels under “General” Olenga intend make hostages of Europeans in Congo.

USG believes such effort would reflect most seriously on African image in America and Europe and critically affect ability US and others exercise constructive influence in resolution Congo problem.

If useful result can be expected desire recipient posts bring US concern this report immediately to attention African Governments. Department requests Accra, Lagos, Conakry, Addis, Khartoum make special effort encourage governments seek ways not inconsistent with authority Central Government prevent any actions this kind.

Rusk
  1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, POL 23–9 THE CONGO. Confidential. Drafted by Newsom, cleared by O’Sullivan, and approved by Tasca.↩