775.56/1–1151

Memorandum by the Acting Deputy Director, International Security Affairs (Ohly) to the Director, Office of Military Assistance, Department of Defense (Scott)

top secret

Subject: Ethiopia and Military Assistance.

Our Embassy in Addis Ababa has been approached repeatedly in recent months by the Emperor of Ethiopia and his representatives concerning the possibility of military assistance.2 Little encouragement has been given to such requests because of the question regarding eligibility of Ethiopia under Section 408(e) and the doubtful value of that country’s contribution to the over-all effort even though arrangements could be made for a modest program. However, it is important that we retain the good will of the Emperor who always has been a good friend of the United States.

As a means to that end, the Office of African Affairs of the Department of State has concurred in a recommendation from the Embassy that a high ranking American General arrange to visit Addis Ababa in the near future. In addition to displaying American interest in Ethiopia it is felt he could explain to the Emperor our conception of Ethiopia’s role in the defense of the non-Communist world and particularly to dissuade him from military expenditures beyond the capacity of his country. It is hoped that such a visit might ward off a repetition of pleas for military assistance which would be embarrassing to both countries.

I should appreciate the views of the Department of Defense concerning the desirability of the proposed visit and what might be involved in making necessary arrangements.

John H. Ohly
  1. For previous documentation on Ethiopian requests for military assistance, see ibid .