Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXI, Near East Region; Arabian Peninsula

468. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Saudi Arabia¹

Washington, December 15, 1967, 0033Z.

84871. Reference: Dhahran 419.² For Ambassador.

1. FYI—In connection Faisal’s suggestion that we talk to Soviets re Yemen problem, Deputy Under Secretary Kohler did raise this question with Ambassador Dobrynin here December 11. Kohler stated we had been surprised by extent and nature of Soviet involvement in the fighting going on in Yemen. Dobrynin commented that USSR for years had been supplying aid to YARG and that this was simply continuing in present more difficult situation for YARG. Dobrynin volunteered he confident Soviet policy of not using Soviet personnel had not changed. USSR had supplied planes and other military equipment, but he was confident Soviets not being used except as instructors. End FYI.

2. Without referring foregoing, you may pass to Faisal fact that USG has been in touch with USSR on Yemen question at high level. Situation under study and further contact will depend on developments.

Katzenbach

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1967-69, POL 27 YEMEN. Secret. Drafted by Brewer on December 14, cleared by Battle and James W. Pratt (EUR/SOV), and approved by Kohler. Repeated to Dhahran.
2. See footnote 2, Document 465.