FOREIGN RELATIONS) 19 5 0, VOLUME I


in accordance with existing directives, and to proceed with full prep-
aration at full speed to meet the situation created. In the event of any
attack covered by the terms of the North Atlantic Treaty, which in-
cludes attack in Germany and Austria, the United States would re-
spond in accordance with its obligations under that Treaty.
  36. In case of other overt aggression by organized USSR military
forces, or in case of further Soviet-inspired aggression in Europe,
and depending upon the nature of the aggression and the country
attacked, the United States in common prudence would have to pro-
ceed on the assumption that global war is probably imminent. Accord-
ingly, recognizing that its response will vary with circumstances and
should be subject to the specific consideration of detailed cases set
forth in paragraph 37 below, the United States should immediately:
  a. Make every effort in the light of the circumstances to localize
the action, to stop the aggression by political measures and to ensure
the unity of the free world if war nevertheless follows. These meas-
ures should include direct diplomatic action and resort to the United
Nations with the objectives of:
       (1) In the case of Soviet-inspired overt aggressions, accelerat-
    ing measures to identify the true source of the aggression in order
    that at a time most advantageous to the United States, the Soviet
    Union itself could be exposed as the aggressor.
       (2) Making clear to the world United States preference for
    a peaceful settlement and the conditions upon which the United
    States would, in concert with other members of the United Na-
    tions, accept such a settlement.
       (3) Consulting with members of the United Nations regard-
    ing týheir willingness to join with the United States in military
    opposition, if necessary, to the aggression.
In addition, the United States should give consideration to the possi-
bility of a direct approach to the highest Soviet leaders.
  b. Consult with selected allies to perfect coordination of plans.
  c. Place itself in the best possible position to meet the eventuality
of global war, and therefore prepare to execute emergency war plans;
but should, in so far xas ,it has ,any choice, enter into full-scale hostili-
ties only at the moment and in the manner most favorable to it in the
light of the situation then existing.
   d. While minimizing United States military commitments in areas
of little strategic significance, take action with reference to the ag-
gression to the extent and in the manner best contributing to the imple-
inentation of United States national war plans.
  -37, Specific immediate actions to be taken in general accordance
With paragraph 36:
   a. In the event of overt attack by organized USSR military forces
 against:


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