Office of the Historian

195. Telegram From Michael V. Forrestal of the National Security Council Staff to the President’s Special Assistant for National Security Affairs (Bundy), at Rome1

Washington, July 1, 1963, 1:34 p.m.2

CAP 63365. Sitto Nr 39.3 At meeting this morning Ball, Harriman, Hilsman and myself reviewed situation in SVN and following courses of action were discussed.4

1.
In last 48 hours as two week truce between Buddhist and GVN draws to end, we have been receiving indications that Buddhists planning further anti-government demonstrations. This occurs against backdrop other reports that brother Nhu attempting sabotage agreements.
2.
In light of this situation we believe Nolting must return Saigon by end of week at latest. Although Trueheart has done excellent job we feel U.S. must have Ambassador present during this dangerous period. We also hope to get Lodge move up his arrival Saigon from September to early August.
3.
Among reports referred in para 1 is indication that Buddhists planning another self-immolation of bonze soon. We all believe one more burning bonze will cause domestic U.S. reaction which will require strong public statement despite danger that this might precipitate coup in Saigon. Demarche to Diem insisting on removal of Nhu and wife to post outside SVN before such statement becomes necessary under consideration. Trueheart and Nolting being consulted.

Believe you may wish bring President up to date this situation.

  1. Source: Kennedy Library, National Security Files, Vietnam Country Series, 7/1/63-7/20/63. Secret. Bundy was in Italy with President Kennedy and Secretary Rusk on the last leg of a four-nation visit to Europe which concluded on July 3.↩
  2. The source text provides this date/time group and an indication that the message was sent on July 2. Internal evidence establishes the July 1 date as accurate.↩
  3. The situation report cited here has not been found.↩
  4. The minutes of the Secretary’s Staff Meeting, chaired by Acting Secretary Ball at 9:15 a.m., are in Department of State, Secretary’s Staff Meetings: Lot 66 D 147, Large Staff Mtgs, 1963.↩