856e.00/9–2048: Telegram
The Consul General at Batavia (Livengood) to the Secretary of State
811. Abbey returned overland from Republican territory this evening. He reports that immediately after Muso coup at Madiun there was great excitement in Jogja and that Cabinet meeting September 19 lasted fom 2 to 5 a. m. During day, situation seemed to clarify and atmosphere improved after Sukarno issued strong statement. Same evening meeting of [apparent garble] was held and leader informed Abbey thought this element would remain with govt. This morning, just before Abbey left Jogja, was informed that govt would close in on three sides on Madiun and it was believed that situation in Solo was sufficiently tranquil to send some troops from that area. Govt hopes to quell Communists in week’s time. Air amongst govt officials this morning much improved; apparently believe army will remain loyal and that people will rally to govt standard. Officials informed Abbey govt going to take stern measures.
There appears to be almost sensation of relief now that the atmosphere is clear and pattern against Communist in sharp outline. If govt can quell this uprising, it will be in much stronger position internally and for negotiations; if it can not, it will either disintegrate or require immediate assistance from outside. Undoubtedly would refuse Dutch assistance but just might accept purely Indo troop assistance from Provisional Federal Govt.
Degree of loyalty of army not yet clear but probably large majority will remain loyal to govt and this no more likely with general populace. If govt had struck first, percentage of both army and populace probably would have become disaffected but now likely that swing will be the other way.
Rumor in Jogja early this morning was that Dutch would move in. Report might have been Muso-inspired for a Dutch police action would [Page 357] admirably suit his purposes. Military observers and others along status quo line at Magelang-Ambarawa and others queried and they report no movements indicating Dutch action. Territory between Mage-lang and status quo line quiet with extra police and military posted for purpose intercepting Communists. It would be most regrettable if Dutch did move across status quo line for this would jeopardize Republican Govt’s position and might swing many people over to Muso—however, do not believe that Dutch will commit such faux pas at present time.
GOC returns Batavia Wednesday which leaves no American observer in Republican territory. This regrettable at this crucial time. Sent Dept 811; Dept pass Hague.1
- This was done on September 21.↩