294. Telegram From the Central Intelligence Agency Station in Saigon to the Agency1
Saigon, August 26,
1963.
[document number and 1 sentence containing document number not declassified]
- 1.
- Following message received from CAS officer who now at Pleiku:
- a.
- Khanh was not ready move now. Plan was to wait until Nhu moved in direction rapprochement with DRV then strike. This would give Generals some legal grounds for move.
- b.
- Still hopes Nhu will provide pretext on which Generals can hang action. Quoting VOA broadcast said hope was we would cut aid and if Diem yields and fires Nhu then no need revolt. My impression he much prefers it that way. Wanted know if “secret police to be punished Der VOA includes Nhu.” I replied Nhu must go. He nodded.
- c.
- Talking to Khiem without his approval was wrong move but no damage. Khanh going Saigon for hour or so tonight.
- d.
- We must not talk to Dinh. Also CAS officer be careful of tight surveillance.
- e.
- Wants immediate reply to single request: will we guarantee safe haven and support to families in case Generals fail? Have no money stashed away.
- f.
- Impression: Khanh caught off base by our timing does not quite know what to do.
- g.
- Recommend phone Khiem number 30102 that I returning Saigon tonight, if you so instruct. We awaiting your instructions.
- 2.
- CAS officer being instructed return tomorrow after an additional meeting with Khanh or without, whichever seems useful. We not replying pare 1e pending discussion with Ambassador.
- Source: National Defense University, Taylor Papers, T-172-69. Top Secret. The source text is a copy sent by the CIA to the Joint Chiefs of Staff exclusive for Krulak who was to pass it exclusive to Lansdale. Copies were also sent to the White House for Forrestal and the Department of State for Hughes and Hilsman.↩