238. Telegram From the Department of State to the Mission to the European Office of the United Nations1
489. Brussels 306 Notal.2 Dept has been informed that Mr. Sens, ICRC Representative at Bujumbura, has been trying to assist in evacuation Europeans from Stanleyville and Kindu.
FYI Sens reportedly not receiving proper support from ICRC in Geneva which seems to have substantial reservations concerning operation in Stanleyville area. End FYI.
We understand Govt of Belgium approaching ICRC Headquarters Geneva to request ICRC help in evacuating Belgians from Stanleyville. There are still five American staff members our Consulate Stanleyville and approximately 20 other Americans (missionaries) trapped by rebel authorities Stanleyville. Recent reports from Europeans who have escaped Stanleyville recount tales of massacres of Europeans and local officials. USG examining all possibilities for evacuation Americans from Stanleyville but current prospects are not bright.
You are requested consult with Belgian colleagues and make similar approach to ICRC Headquarters in favor Americans in Stanleyville area. We realize ICRC cannot give any assurances to take action in our behalf but we wish ICRC Headquarters to know of our very great interest in Sens’ efforts and hope ICRC will encourage Sens make every possible effort obtain release evacuation Americans in Stanleyville.
FYI If ICRC should need logistic support such as aircraft for transportation USG ready willing and able provide. End FYI.
- Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1964–66, PS 7–6 THE CONGO. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Walker A. Diamanti in AF; cleared by O’Sullivan, Gerald B. Helman of UNP, Alice B. Correll of SCS, and Officer in Charge of Belgian Affairs Allen C. Davis; and approved by Tasca. Repeated to Brussels, Leopoldville, Bujumbura, and Kigali.↩
- Dated August 22. (Ibid., POL 23–9 THE CONGO)↩