Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume III, Vietnam, June–December 1965

266. Telegram From the Embassy in Poland to the Department of State¹

Warsaw, December 29, 1925.

1060. For the President and Secretary from Harriman.

1. Ambassador and I have just concluded one hour and a quarter talk with Rapacki, Winiewicz, Michalowski and Wierna.

2. I outlined President’s position regarding pause in bombing as a step towards peace with hope Hanoi would respond. We gave Rapacki the Secretary’s 14 points as U.S. attitude towards peace in Southeast Asia.

3. Rapacki, after some argument that we were giving ultimatum to Hanoi by threat of resuming bombing with possible escalation, finally accepted my contention that pause was in fact giving Hanoi an opportunity for peaceful settlement if she would seize it and respond with a return indication.

4. Rapacki suggested adjournment for lunch. He said our talk had resulted in an understanding of each other’s position and that this afternoon he wants to discuss the kind of message he might convey to Hanoi.

5. Ambassador feels my visit and our discussion have been useful as Rapacki is obviously gratified to be consulted and is anxious to play a role in these events.

Gronouski

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, POL 27 VIET S. Secret; Flash; Nodis; Pinta. The source text does not indicate a time of transmission; the telegram was received at 8:47 a.m.