Lot 55D128: Black Book, Tab 134: Telegram
The Commander in Chief, United Nations Command (Ridgway) to the Joint Chiefs of Staff
C–59941. For info, CINCUNC Adv HNC 614.
“Sub-delegations on item nbr 3 met at 1400. UNC stated that through staff officers at this morning’s meeting it had made a proposal designed to solve main issue (airfields), now it was Communists turn to make a move, Hsieh said crucial question was that of his principle four (airfields), saying UNC proposal in staff meeting was no concession. Hsieh said question of airfields should not even be discussed. He said his stand on this point was an unshakeable one. UNC said realities must be faced, as in the case of the solution of agenda item nbr 2; asked that Hsieh accept UNC proposal made by staff officers for revision [Page 1420] of principle four. Hsieh said two forces were in balance; his side would not accept interference in internal affairs. UNC said military realities must govern solution; that the idea of preserving rough balance now existing was precisely why UNC insisted on prohibiting military airfields rehabilitation. Hsieh said UNC must give up interference in internal affairs. UNC said armistice would remove almost all of present interference in internal affairs, leaving only restrictions on airfields. Hsieh said UNC failed to see advantages gained by UNC as result of armistice. UNC said it was Hsieh’s turn to make a move. UNC said no progress possible until Hsieh gave up demand to increase his military capabilities during armistice. Hsieh said UNC sought to deceive world. Hsieh asked if UNC meant that unless he accepted UNC revised principle on airfields, nothing further could be done. UNC said it was willing to listen to any new proposal. Hsieh said sole issue was interference in internal affairs and that there would be no progress as long as UNC insisted on this. Hsieh charged UNC was stalling. UNC recommended Hsieh study concession made in our proposal of today. Recessed 1500. Continue tomorrow at 1100. Sgd Joy.”