357.AD/12–1150: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the United States Mission at the United Nations

top secret
priority

581. Eyes only for Austin and Gross. Fol sets forth our attitude toward cease-fire which shld be reflected in your conversations with reps of Asian group and in your discretion with other dels:

We will consider a cease-fire in Korea but must insist upon cease-fire which does not place UN forces at military disadvantage and which does not involve political consideration. Details of cease-fire shld be negotiated in order to protect security UN forces before cease-fire is accepted.

We believe further that to insure compliance and prevent worsening of military situation of UN forces during cease-fire, there must be UN observation throughout Korea of operation of cease-fire agreement.

FYI Joint Chiefs will prepare as matter urgency military conditions on which cease-fire wld be acceptable.

Acheson