100. Memorandum for the Record1
SUBJECT
- SCC Working Group Meeting on Zaire—May 16, 1978–11:00 a.m.
Principal points and assignments made were as follows:
In the Intelligence area the radio blackout was noted and State is to check with the GOZ concerning the situation at the Base Camp. CIA is to produce maps and photographs of the Kolwezi area. [3 lines not declassified]
With regard to the evacuation of American citizens, the situation is unclear. State is to look into the possibility of sending cars in from Lubumbashi. DOD said that an air drop into the Kolwezi to seize the airport and rescue Americans could take place in 66½ hours from the time it was ordered. If troops were on alert this would be reduced by 18 hours. The advisability of putting troops on alert will be decided later. DOD will also look at a smaller military option, putting a company-size force in to defend the Americans in place. It will also check on aircraft availability to effect an unopposed evacuation. State is to press French and Belgians on their evacuation plans.
[Page 284]In the area of military supply, Defense said it would have a good fix on availabilities and requirements by Wednesday morning. They will see what they can do to expedite flow of critical items both in terms of rapid movement and reprogramming within the FY 1978 orders.
We will keep Congress informed and if we decide to go to military alert will brief them. We will be developing public statements later this afternoon.
In addition to close consultation with the French and Belgians, diplomatic activities will include keeping selected African states briefed on the situation and contacting the Angolans and Portuguese.
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Staff Material, Office, Box 10, SCC Meeting #80 Held 5/26/78, 5/78. Secret; Sensitive. Copies were sent to Aaron, Richardson, and Odom. No minutes of the meeting have been found.↩