293. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State1
881. Eyes only for Ambassadors. Stevenson, McGhee and Yost discussed with SYG and Bunche this afternoon2 possibility of early visit by McGhee to Congo.
In reply to query as to latest developments in Congo Thant said he has impression Tshombe believes that UN is unable exercise economic pressure against Katanga and he is therefore simply stalling.
SYG mentioned that he has despatched letter to Adoula urging that latter agree to immediate visit to Elizabethville of 4 UN constitutional experts (Bunche mentioned Nigerian expert has already left Congo). SYG said that if Adoula reply is negative he is prepared to force a showdown as he fully recognizes importance from broad public relations point of view of Tshombe having opportunity at this time to comment further on constitutional provisions.
Thant also mentioned that latest UN intelligence indicates there is substantial build-up of aircraft and mercenaries in Katanga. UN reconnaissance has spotted six Harvard aircraft as well as number of Dorniers, [Page 580] Otters and Doves at Kolwezi and several new air strips. There is also evidence that six new Fouga jets are being uncrated. It is feared these are intended for attack on UN airbase at Kamina. There are moreover reports that 1,500 to 2,000 additional mercenaries have appeared, some of whom may be French from Algeria though bulk are probably Belgians resident in Katanga.
In response further inquiry Bunche said that Gardiner has for some time planned to go to Eville but visit has been delayed by clash at Eville airport and by uncertainty whether Tshombe will receive him. He still intends to go but no date has been fixed.
McGhee outlined reasons which might justify his making early visit to Leoville and Eville, emphasizing visit would be in support of UN and Gardiner, and would be honoring US commitment to do all in its power to persuade Tshombe to accept UN reconciliation plan.
Bunche mentioned importance of being sure Adoula approved trip. Thant agreed but said he was sure Adoula would approve if he were convinced principal purpose of trip was to put pressure on Tshombe to accept plan. On this assumption he felt visit would be most useful and should be undertaken this week. He said next two weeks will be critical in determining whether or not UN operation in Congo can succeed.
Stevenson mentioned that according to Lord Home British and Sir [Roy] Welensky are also sincerely endeavoring convince Tshombe to accept plan. Thant remarked he might suggest to Home possibility of high-ranking Britisher also going to Eville for this purpose. Thant feels it of utmost importance that all pressures from all sources be exerted at this time.
Bunche noted that during first mtg of military commission in Eville Katangans had called for UN evacuation of Eville airport. This is hardly hopeful sign.