Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 45: Telegram

The Commander in Chief, Far East ( Ridgway ) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff

secret   priority

C–56250. HNC 409. “Sub-delegation reports as follows on today’s meeting.

“Morning session! opened at 1100 today. During this session considerable time was spent attempting to point out why UNC proposal is equitable and reasonable in contrast to meaningless Communist proposal. Communists referred to fighting in Yonan and Ongjin Peninsulas. UNC asked the location of the line of contact in this area in order to establish future trading position. Communists refused to indicate contact line but continued to maintain that there were battles in the area from which they would withdraw their troops. UNC delegates pointed out that situation in Ongjin and Yonan areas was identical to those in Wonsan, Chinampo and other areas in that there was no line of ground contact on those peninsulas. Discussion then shifted to islands. Communists maintained UNC withdrawal from islands should not be considered in settlement to be made along main battle position. Thereafter discussion was directed to meaningness of Communist line of demarcation in the west and consequent basic lack of soundness in their position.

“During afternoon session line of contact was discussed. Communists refused to agree that Kaesong merited special consideration on grounds that Communists had occupied area without combat as the result of security arrangements associated with armistice talks. Communists gave long speech of seen [?] adulation.

“Estimate made in yesterdays summary was overly optimistic. Communists insist their line of contact is correct. They would not modify it today, but did admit that it was based on information several days old.

“Communists continue to urge their original proposal without visible signs of weakening. Their presentations in support of it today were not good, but they are not yet exhausted. UNC delegates will continue tomorrow to pound home the superiority of the UNC proposal over that of the Communists. Signed Joy”.