Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–12, Documents on East and Southeast Asia, 1973–1976

146. Memorandum From Secretary of State Kissinger to the Under Secretary for Security Assistance (Maw), Washington, December 19, 1975¹ ²

Washington, December 19, 1975

THE SECRETARY OF STATE
WASHINGTON

December 19, 1975

MEMORANDUM FOR T - MR. MAW

SUBJECT: Security Assistance to Indonesia

This will confirm the guidance which I gave you orally shortly before my departure for Europe on December 10. Thus, you should act quietly to suspend, by administrative action, further MAP grants and FMS Sales, Credits and Guarantees to Indonesia. I have ordered that this step be taken because the legal implications of Indonesian actions in Timor are not yet clear. This is to be considered an interim step, pending a determination as to the legal consequences, if any, of the Indonesian action.

I recognize that there may be inquiries from members of Congress as to what our policy is with respect to Indonesia. When such inquiries are received, you should advise members of Congress that we have quietly suspended further MAP Grants and FMS Sales, Credits, and Guarantees pending full legal review, but prefer not to make a public announcement pending further study.

I would like to review this situation again in January when you and the East Asian Bureau are in a position to brief me more fully.

[signed] Henry A. Kissinger

1. Source: Library of Congress, Henry Kissinger Papers, Geopolitical File, CL 151, Indonesia, 1973–75, Folder 7. Secret.
2. A memorandum from Kissinger asked Maw to suspend MAP grants and FMS sales to Indonesia.