Foreign Relations of the United States, 1947, The Far East, Volume VI

356E.115/7–447: Telegram

The Consul General at Batavia (Foote) to the Secretary of State

secret
us urgent

Batavia, July 4, 1947—3 p.m.

258. Deptel 175, June 28.³³ In view urgency situation, Dept’s attention invited to following points:

1. By July 6 we may know whether Dutch-Indo agreement possible. My opinion Indo reply will be unsatisfactory since it known they been stalling for time with no intention reaching any agreement except on own terms. In such event some military action may occur.

2. If presume Indos agree 100%, must be remembered they unable restore law and order or perform any other duties of government in Sumatra and most of Java where feelings mostly anti-Javanese. If Republican Govt wishes agree, they must use some Dutch forces to restore law and order and protect lives and property, especially in Sumatra and parts of Java. Whether or not agreement made, cold fact is some military action (more in nature of police action) completely necessary, especially in Sumatra where American property located. Irresponsible elements there are in control and in nature of private armies or gangs who obey no one but local leaders. Republic means nothing to such elements. Regardless of whether Dutch and Indos agree, there many areas Sumatra and Java where quick surprise steps must be taken if will protect property.

3. Even police action will be exaggerated by correspondents into fullblown war in efforts make headlines. This will be done chiefly by British and Australian correspondents but I fear some Americans may possibly follow suit and again glamorize where such may be unjust. If military or police action becomes necessary anywhere, both Van Mook and General Spoor³⁵ have promised keep me advised every possible detail.

Foote

33. Same as telegram 320, June 28, to The Hague, p. 962.
35. Commander in Chief, Netherlands East Indies Army (Land Forces).