Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, East Asia and the Pacific, Volume XII, Part 2

790.5/6–654: Telegram

No. 427
The Ambassador in Thailand (Donovan) to the Under Secretary of State (Smith), at Geneva¹

top secret

Bangkok, June 6, 1954—noon.

5. Geneva eyes only Smith. Reference Geneva telegram 13, repeated Department Dulte 139.²

Original suggestion concerning jet fighter wing sent Secretary on my own responsibility as practical means of strengthening this region.

Prime Minister and Air Marshal Ronnie³ stated that Thai Cabinet was strongly in favor of United States leased bases in Thailand. Sarasin under impression three points were conditions. In reality these points considered by Cabinet as possible examples of how to take the step which both countries know must be done in negotiated partnership to avoid the propaganda pitfalls of “the occupying power”.

I hope you will refrain from bringing before you Thai and American officers to resolve difficulties that are curing themselves.

Marshal Ronnie and his staff of the Thai Air Force together with Gillmore dined with me on the evening of June 1 and confirmed what I said above.

Donovan

1. Repeated to the Department eyes only for the Secretary as telegram 2424 which is the source text.
2. Supra.
3. Air Chief Marshal Fuen Ronapakat Riddhagni, Commander in Chief of the Thai Air Force.