Rusk Tries To Stem Criticism Of War
(N.Z.P. A. -Reuter —Copyright)
WASHINGTON, October 13.
The Secretary of State, Mr Dean Rusk, today opened a major United States Administration effort to stem a rising tide of criticism of Vietnam policies by branding Hanoi as the major obstacle to peace.
He maintained that much of the domestic debate gripping the nation was merely “variations on a theme” of how to fulfil the United States commitment in Vietnam.
“I am encouraged by progress toward peace in South Vietnam, but I cannot name a date,” he said as he sought to reverse criticisms that things were going poorly for the United States. “It takes two to make peace,” he remarked. There had been no indication from Hanoi that it was prepared to accept President Johnson’s offer of two weeks ago to enter into prompt and
productive tjflks, he added. Informed sources said Mr Rusk decided to speak out because influential Republicans as well as Democrats in Congress have joined forces in the last two weeks in almost daily attacks on administration policies, including many who allege a growing “credibility gap” over Vietnam intentions. Mr Rusk hit back at the critics: “Let me say as solemnly as I can that those who would place in question the credibility of the pledged word of the United States under our mutual security treaties would subject this nation to mortal danger. “If any who would be our adversary should suppose that our treaties are a bluff, or will be abandoned if the going gets tough, the result could be catastrophe for all mankind.”
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Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31500, 14 October 1967, Page 13
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265Rusk Tries To Stem Criticism Of War Press, Volume CVII, Issue 31500, 14 October 1967, Page 13
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