793.00/7–2252: Telegram
No. 37
The Chargé in the Republic of China
(Jones)
to the Department of State
77. Admiral Fechteler had private conversation with President Chiang Sunday July 20 at occasion of dinner given in his honor by Generalissimo. I was present at invitation of Generalissimo.
Conversation resulted in suggestion by Generalissimo “speaking as a friend to friend” that Chinese troops be used to invade Chinese mainland, with only matériel support from US, Generalissimo arguing this would be mere civil war and would not precipitate world conflict. Chinese military would need planes and ships and logistic support but he insisted no US personnel need be involved in combat operation which Generalissimo estimated could be conducted at one-third dollar cost of Korea.
Fukien-Amoy coast is not yet well-defended, Generalissimo said, although cities of Shanghai and Canton are. Plan has been worked out in detail for assault on coast which he offered to have shown to Admiral Fechteler.
Implication in Generalissimo’s remarks on coastal defense was that time was of essence but subsequent discussions by Admiral Fechteler with [apparent omission] action in near future could be contemplated in view equipment and training required. Plans for assault on Amoy were shown last night to Admiral Fechteler and General Chase both of whom convinced tremendous amount preparatory work required before operation could be considered feasible.
General Chase further considers totally impracticable large-scale amphibious assault with present state equipment and training Chinese Armed Forces. Such operation in his opinion would require in foreseeable future substantial support from US Navy and Air Force and complete logistic support in addition to assistance and advice in planning.
[Page 77]Evident Generalissimo letting loose trial balloon but possible one meriting some consideration if sober analysis substantiates his contention as to Chinese capabilities.
Generalissimo also expressed himself as strongly in favor blockade of Chinese coast and bombing of Manchuria bases in event of failure truce efforts Korea which he believes inevitable.
Despatch follows.1
- Despatch 35 from Taipei, July 25, not printed.↩