Office of the Historian

795.00/11–1850: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Netherlands (Chapin) to the Secretary of State

top secret
niact
The Hague, November 18, 1950—5 p. m.
[Received November 18—2:29 p. m.]

749. Foreign Minister Stikker called me to Ministry this morning and reference our discussion (Embtel 722, November 14, 7 p. m.) stated Netherlands Government gravely concerned over possibility “hot pursuit” Manchurian air space being permitted and handed me aide-mémoire substance as follows:

(1)
Netherlands Government fully shares US opinion grave problem confronting US forces Korea in use by enemy of Manchuria as privileged sanctuary and admits such abuse Manchuria may finally impose intolerable burden UN Forces acting lawfully Korea.
(2)
Notes with satisfaction US determination do everything possible localize conflict Korea.
(3)
Netherlands Government remains convinced necessary continue efforts arrive understanding Chinese Peoples Government and therefor concerned learn that US opinion may become necessary early date permit UN aircraft defend themselves in airspace over Yalu River. Netherlands Government feels very strongly such measure may easily result extension Chinese aggression which ultimately “must” lead outbreak full-scale war China.
(4)
In view its expected grave complications Netherlands Government considers aforesaid measure (hot pursuit) beyond scope authority granted Commander UN Forces. Government feels decision this important matter should not be taken without express approval SC or UNGA.
(5)
Netherlands Government opines wording accepted resolution re UN military action Korea not liable interpretation permitting UN aircraft extend their operations outside Korean territory and doubts whether issuance such order within competence Unified Command.

Chapin