Page:Pentagon-Papers-Part-V-B-3b.djvu/146

 TOP SECRET :. : The major share of the burden for provision of replacement equipment, ammunition and over-all logistic support for all forces involved will have to be undertaken by the United States. The equipment and materials relinquished by the French Forces should assist in meeting the initial materiel requirements.


 * . : This course would undoubtedly have the following effects: an increased calculated risk of war with Communist China or of general war, adversely affecting war plans; alterations in fiscal and budgetary policies and programs dependent on the scale and duration of operations; and a reversal of policy planning to reduce the size of the U. S. armed forces.

44. : French disassociation would largely remove Asian suspicions that the actions of the United States and the West are directed toward perpetuating French colonialism in the area and thereby enhance support for UN action. However, there night be increased pressure for a negotiated settlement and UN mediation, and equally strong pressure for limiting any hostilities to Indochina.

45. : It would be feasible to secure support of a regional grouping for U. S. replacement of French forces in Indochina. In the contingency of French withdrawal Thailand, in particular, and the other states in general, Rh TOP SECRET