Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Indochina, Volume XIII, Part 1

751G.5 MSP/10–553: Telegram

The Ambassador in France (Dillon) to the Department of State

secret

Paris, October 5, 1953—1 p.m.

1351. Embassy believes it unwise approach French here at this time subject Deptel 1224, October 1.¹ Portion of IC aid agreement to which Department refers was one about which French were particularly sensitive. In present atmosphere Paris dust of agreement announcement has not yet settled, press continues to speculate about “secret” conditions and concealed intentions, leftists spout about selling blood for dollars and even moderates and friends US deplore fact that agreement undoubtedly lessens possibilities negotiated peace. Moment, therefore, not suitable to bring up question US military mission to IC or anything else which could be interpreted substantiate allegations US now directing IC war with French bodies.

For this reason it is recommended that any action in matter vis-à-vis French authorities Paris be deferred for at least fortnight. By that time if all goes well, news of agreement will have been digested and atmosphere should be clearer. Recommendation not to be interpreted as constituting opposition to O’Daniel mission per se. We think it excellent idea as proposed, particularly under a man as favorably known French circles. Our objectives are merely question of timing.

Since drafting above Deptel 1262, October 2² has been received. Agree this is best way handle matter. Suggest O’Daniel emphasize that request comes in answer Navarre’s prior invitation return IC and not precipitated by new agreement. When arrangements sufficiently advanced recommend Embassy be authorized inform Foreign Office and Secretariat relations Associated States.³

Dillon

1. Telegram 1224 to Paris, Oct. 1, not printed, indicated that the Departments of State and Defense favored another mission to Indochina by General O’Daniel in the near future, pursuant to the exchange of letters of Sept. 29 on additional aid (p. 812) which included the provision that the French Government would continue to facilitate the exchange of military information. (751G.5 MSP/10–153)
2. Telegram 1262 to Paris, Oct. 2, not printed, stated that arrangements for the mission would be made by direct correspondence between Generals O’Daniel and Navarre. (751G.5 MSP/10–253)
3. In telegram 1348 to Paris, Oct. 9, Ambassador Dillon was informed that the visit would be considered a progress reporting exercise in continuation of the original O’Daniel mission of July. (751G.5 MSP/10–553) The second O’Daniel mission visited Indochina in November.