441. Editorial Note
At the 465th meeting of the National Security Council, October 31, General Charles P. Cabell briefed the Council on Laos as part of the usual discussion of “Significant World Developments Affecting U.S. Security.” Cabell reported as follows:
“General Cabell characterized the situation in Laos as one of continuing drift. There had been little progress toward uniting the non-Communists, who were now concentrated in Savannakhet and Luang Prabang. Vientiane had accomplished little in bringing Kong Le under control. Pathet Lao influence was on the increase and the Pathet Lao was working with Kong Le. There had been clashes in Phong Saly Province between government troops and the Pathet Lao. General Ouane was in Luang Prabang organizing support for the First Military District. Phoumi, General Cabell indicated, was restless and had rejected the terms offered by Souvanna Phouma’s emissary. Negotiations between Souvanna Phouma and the Pathet Lao had not progressed satisfactorily from the point of view of either side. Former Premier Phoui was in Bangkok canvassing the possibility that he might become a compromise candidate for Premier.” (Memorandum of discussion by Johnson, November 2; Eisenhower Library, Whitman File, NSC Records)