105. Memorandum From the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Brzezinski) to President Carter1
SUBJECT
- Chemical Weapons (U)
A Mini-SCC chaired by David Aaron2 has discussed whether the US should change its negotiating tactics to allow the Committee on Disarmament (CD) to begin limited multilateral discussion of a CW treaty. State, ACDA, and OSD favor such a shift on the grounds that it will end our present and costly isolation on the question and will be helpful to our position in the US-Soviet bilateral negotiation. The JCS strongly opposes the shift; they believe it will increase expectations for a treaty and eventually create pressures for relaxation of our substantive positions. It was decided that in upcoming consultations with key allies and other western nations, we will indicate that we are considering a shift if we can be assured of strong support to keep the CD’s mandate narrowly limited, and in protecting our substantive position. A final decision will [Page 231] be made in light of responses received. The JCS representative noted that he could not concur in this approach. (S)
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Brzezinski Material, Brzezinski Office File, Box 81, Chemical and Warfare, 1–6/80. Secret. Sent for information. Carter initialed the top of the memorandum.↩
- See Document 104.↩