Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXXIV, National Security Policy, 1969–1972

119. Editorial Note

On January 22, 1970, Henry A. Kissinger, the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs, sent a memorandum to President Nixon informing him of indications that the Soviet Union was interested in limiting anti-ballistic missile (ABM) systems through a strategic arms limitation agreement. While there was some speculation that the Soviets wanted to prohibit all ABMs, Kissinger believed that “Moscow’s preference was for a limited ABM system for protection against third country attacks.” Nixon highlighted the above passage and wrote: “K[issinger]—This is what they will insist on.” The memorandum is published in Foreign Relations, 1969–1976, volume XXXII, SALT I, 1969–1972, Document 49.