795.00/8–2250
Memorandum by the Assistant Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs (Rusk) to the Planning Adviser, Bureau of Far Eastern Affairs (Emmerson)
top secret
[Washington,] September 8, 1950.
Subject: New Démarche to Bajpai: Proposed Terms for Settlement of Korean Conflict
Reference: Your memorandum August 22, 19501
It is believed that the reference project should not be undertaken for the following reasons:
- (1)
- The conflict in Korea is primarily a concern for, first, the UNSC, and, second, the 53 members of the United Nations supporting the UN resolution of June 25 and June 27;
- (2)
- Such a démarche coming from the United States alone would therefore be inappropriate and would cause some wonder in the mind of Bajpai as to, not only its propriety, its bona fides;
- (3)
- The démarche as such would in fact commit us to a position which we have as yet neither cleared as a Government position nor cleared with other friendly Powers, and would therefore tend to create for us certain possible future complications;
- (4)
- In view of the existing military situation in Korea and the position of both Moscow and Peiping, consideration of the matter outside the UNSC would appear in any event to be premature;
- (5)
- The discussions with Bajpai are proceeding satisfactorily on the present basis and had perhaps better not be complicated by the interjection of a new controversial matter such as the present.
The proposed procedure for a settlement of the Korean conflict prior to the assumption of the offensive by UN forces, judged on its merits, has much to recommend it. It is suggested that it be kept on ice for possible future use.