111. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State1
4746. Disarmament.
1. Suslov (Soviet Under Secretary in Secretariat) expressed gloom over present state US-Soviet relations, accusing US of, in effect, forcing USSR close ranks with ChiComs. Said he particularly depressed as result his recent visit to Moscow, where he found people speaking language entirely different from what he had become used to over past several years. Complained Soviet advocates of US-Soviet rapprochement, in which group he included himself, were now in extremely difficult position and were accused of being “apologists of American imperialism.” Said Dobrynin, whom he saw last week, also very depressed, and observed US “lucky” have man such as Dobrynin as Soviet Ambassador in times like these. Expressed surprise USSR has been able maintain restraint thus far, but was worried it might run out soon. Felt next several months would be crucial, but in spite of his pessimism, hoped for the best. Claimed Soviet solidarity with Socialist countries overriding factor in Soviet foreign policy, and suggested US should keep that in mind. Nevertheless, he believed basic precepts Sov foreign policy as expounded by Khrushchev in his “simplistic” way [Page 291] still valid but had to be handled differently in view changed circumstances (e.g., Soviet-US bilateral deals not now possible). Stressed need for either USSR or US making a good-will gesture, but realized both extremely limited in their freedom of action at this time.
As to prospects for peaceful settlement Viet Nam, thought no negotiations could take place unless US stopped air raids in North Viet Nam. Suspension of raids for just a few days insufficient.
Commented no disarmament talks possible while bombs falling in Viet Nam. Opined solution UN financial problem would depend on general state US-Soviet relations, rather than on what happens in Committee of 33.
[Here follow 3 paragraphs on disarmament.]
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, DEF 18 UN. Confidential. Repeated to Geneva.↩