Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Indonesia, Volume XVII

53. Memorandum From the Joint Chiefs of Staff to Secretary of Defense McElroy⁰

Washington, April 8, 1958.

SUBJECT

• Indonesia

1. The Joint Chiefs of Staff are seriously concerned over the rising influence that the Russians are achieving throughout Indonesia by their introduction of merchant ships, crews, supplies, and the impending arrival of Russian aircraft. Conversely, the plight of the Revolutionary Government becomes increasingly worse.

2. [1-1/2 lines of source text not declassified] Defeat of the dissidents would almost certainly lead to Communist domination of Indonesia. Such a turn of events would cause serious reaction in Malaya and Thailand, probable trouble in Laos and possible trouble in Cambodia. It could result in the disappearance of SEATO as a viable pact, and an extension of Communist influence in the Moslem Middle East. Consequently, if Communist domination of Indonesia is to be prevented, action must be taken, including overt measures as required, to insure either the success of the dissidents or the suppression of the pro-Communist elements of the Sukarno government.

3. The Joint Chiefs of Staff recommend that you support a relaxation of restrictions on United States policy toward Indonesia and accelerated efforts to prevent the fall of this nation to Communism.

0. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 218, JCS Records, 092 Asia (6–25–48). Top Secret. Attached to JCS 1992/651. Another copy of this memorandum is in Department of State, Central Files, 756D.00/4–858.