Foreign Relations of the United States, 1981–1988, Volume XIII, Conflict in the South Atlantic, 1981–1984

352. Message From President Reagan to British Prime Minister Thatcher¹

Washington, June 18, 1982, 1520Z

Dear Margaret:

Let me extend my congratulations on the success of British arms in the South Atlantic. Your victory was both a brilliant military feat and a defense of our shared principle that disputes are not to be resolved by aggression. The minimum loss of life and the generous terms of withdrawal were also in the finest British tradition.

A just war requires a just peace. We look forward to consulting with you and to assisting in building such a peace. It must of course take into account the sacrifices of your men in battle. Its elements in my judgement must include enhancement of the long-term security of the South Atlantic, mitigation of Argentine hostility and improvement in the relations of both our countries with Latin America.

It was good to be with you in Paris, London and Bonn.

Warm regards,

Ron²

1. Source: Reagan Library, Latin American Affairs Directorate, NSC, Falklands/Malvinas: NSC & State Memos, 1982. Secret. Sent in telegram WH04195 from the White House to the Cabinet Office via Cabinet Office channels.
2. Printed from a copy that bears this handwritten signature, written in an unknown hand.