President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the specific language and strategic implications of a pending speech regarding the Vietnam War. They debate the nuances of phrasing concerning the cessation of hostilities and the potential for a political settlement based on popular will in South Vietnam. The brief meeting concludes with the delivery of a speech draft to the President for final review.
On May 8, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon, Henry A. Kissinger, and unknown person(s) met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 4:55 pm and 4:57 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 336-032 of the White House Tapes.
Nixon Library Finding AidConversation No. 336-32 Date: May 8, 1972 Time: Between 4:55 and 4:57 pm Location: Executive Office Building The President talked with Henry A. Kissinger. [See Conversation No. 24-13] [End of telephone conversation] An unknown person entered at an unknown time after 4:55 pm. Delivery of speech draft The unknown person left at an unknown time before 4:57 pm. (rev. Nov-01)
This transcript was generated automatically by AI and has not been reviewed for accuracy. Do not cite this transcript as authoritative. Consult the Finding Aid above for verified information.