Nixon White House Tapes › Topic
Nixon Tapes on Diplomacy
381 conversations · page 4 of 4 · frequently with Nixon, Kissinger, Bull, Rogers
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the diplomatic and military strategy regarding the Vietnam peace negotiations, specifically focusing on the necessity of resuming air strikes to force Hanoi to settle. Nixon emphasized that taking military action now was critical, as it avoided the constraints of consulting with Congress and created an enforceable agreement before the upcoming inauguration. They also analyzed the lack of cooperation from South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu and finalized plans for a private dinner with Alice Roosevelt Longworth and other select guests.
Colonel Richard T. Kennedy informed President Nixon that North Vietnamese negotiators had accepted the proposed schedule for technical meetings on January 2, 1973, and high-level talks between Henry Kissinger and Le Duc Tho on January 8. The two discussed the necessary cessation of U.S. bombing in North Vietnam, ultimately agreeing to move the start date for the halt forward to December 29 to facilitate the diplomatic process. President Nixon directed Kennedy to ensure Kissinger called him immediately to finalize details before his departure for Camp David.
President Nixon directs Stephen B. Bull to coordinate with the Kennedy family and the State Department regarding a potential reception for visiting foreign dignitaries attending the upcoming funeral/memorial services. Drawing a comparison to the protocol followed after Dwight D. Eisenhower's death, Nixon emphasizes the need for discreet inquiries to determine if such a diplomatic gesture is appropriate. He delegates the final recommendation to the State Department while expressing a personal willingness to host the event if deemed necessary.
President Nixon and Col. Richard T. Kennedy discussed the strategic importance of excluding Australian officials from receiving advance notice regarding ongoing diplomatic maneuvers. Nixon reaffirmed his belief that recent bombing campaigns were essential to force North Vietnamese negotiators back to the table in a serious manner. The participants also touched upon the intense external pressures influencing their counterparts as they prepared for upcoming meetings.
On December 29, 1972, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 6:52 pm and 7:02 pm. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 158-031 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted with Deputy Secretary of State Kenneth Rush to coordinate efforts and ensure organizational readiness for upcoming events, likely related to ongoing diplomatic negotiations. Nixon affirmed his support for the administration's strategic path despite anticipated media scrutiny, emphasizing the necessity of resolving the situation decisively. The discussion served as a final check to ensure all parties were aligned before critical developments occurred the following day.
President Nixon and his daughter Tricia Nixon Cox spoke to exchange New Year's greetings and coordinate logistics regarding Tricia’s upcoming travel to the Soviet Union. Tricia sought the President’s approval for hosting various official functions, including luncheons and meetings with Soviet cultural officials and city mayors. The President affirmed her plans and encouraged her to proceed with the scheduled itinerary.
President Nixon met with Philippine diplomat Carlos P. Romulo and Colonel Richard T. Kennedy to discuss the geopolitical landscape in Asia and the ongoing negotiations to end the Vietnam War. Nixon expressed his support for President Ferdinand Marcos's recent implementation of martial law as a necessary tool to maintain order in a developing nation. The discussion also covered the importance of maintaining an American presence in Asia to balance Soviet and Chinese influence, as well as upcoming administrative changes regarding U.S. ambassadors and educational loan agreements.
On January 5, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House from 4:01 pm to 4:03 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 834-015 of the White House Tapes.
On January 11, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Col. Richard T. Kennedy talked on the telephone from 2:17 pm to 2:18 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 035-136 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. to finalize the tone and thematic content of his upcoming second inaugural address. The discussion focused on emphasizing American global responsibilities, maintaining traditional international friendships, and reflecting on the administration's foreign policy achievements in Peking and Moscow. Stephen B. Bull assisted with administrative logistics, including the signing of pending documents and the management of the President's immediate schedule.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Ronald Ziegler met to discuss the final preparations for the 1973 Inaugural address and the critical timing surrounding the Vietnam peace settlement. They reviewed revisions to the speech, specifically focusing on the characterization of U.S. alliances and diplomatic references to Beijing and Moscow. Additionally, the participants coordinated media strategies for the Vietnam announcement, emphasizing the importance of controlling information flow to the press and ensuring that key political figures were properly briefed.
President Nixon and speechwriter Raymond K. Price, Jr. met to finalize the language and rhetoric of Nixon's 1973 inaugural address. They focused on refining passages concerning the changing nature of America’s global role, emphasizing the administration's foreign policy achievements regarding Vietnam, the Soviet Union, and the People's Republic of China. Nixon directed Price to incorporate these revisions, specifically highlighting the impact of his administration's 'boldness and steadfastness,' and instructed that the final text be delivered to Rose Mary Woods for processing.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the final stages of the Vietnam peace negotiations, focusing on ensuring South Vietnamese President Nguyen Van Thieu’s compliance with the impending agreement. Kissinger briefs the President on technical details, including language regarding personal weapons and the planned schedule for his upcoming meetings in Paris. The two leaders agree on the strategic value of including the South Vietnamese Foreign Minister in these talks to provide Thieu with a face-saving "fig leaf" while finalizing the transition toward a ceasefire.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the complexities of diplomatic communications and the perceived dishonesty of foreign counterparts regarding official correspondence. The two explore the necessity of maintaining a firm public stance while coordinating their strategic approach to upcoming negotiations. They conclude by scheduling a follow-up meeting at the Executive Office Building for the following evening to further assess their position.
On January 26, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Stephen B. Bull met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:15 pm and 12:21 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 843-012 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon, Henry Kissinger, and Indonesian Foreign Minister Adam Malik met to discuss the positive international reaction to the recently signed Vietnam peace agreement. The participants reviewed favorable responses from various global powers and the perceived strengthening of Nixon's political position. Additionally, the group touched upon the strategic importance of Indonesia and Southeast Asia, with Nixon emphasizing a commitment to continued economic and geopolitical cooperation.
President Richard M. Nixon met with British Prime Minister Edward Heath, Sir Burke Trend, Henry Kissinger, and George Shultz to discuss diplomatic and policy matters. Due to the highly fragmentary and incoherent nature of the provided transcript, it is impossible to discern substantive policy developments or specific action items from this record. The conversation appears to lack a coherent topical focus, precluding a meaningful historical summary of the proceedings.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinated the rescheduling of a meeting with John B. Connally, who postponed his appointment due to urgent negotiations with Algerian representatives. Haldeman confirmed the meeting would occur the following morning, and Nixon requested a briefing on the subject matter prior to his own scheduled afternoon discussion with Connally. The call served to adjust the President's calendar and ensure adequate preparation regarding the Algerian diplomatic situation.
President Nixon and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield discussed upcoming foreign policy developments, including Henry Kissinger’s diplomatic missions to Hanoi and Peking and the potential for a future trip to China for Mansfield. They also coordinated on appointing members to the Committee for the Study of Foreign Policy, with Nixon expressing a desire to select high-profile individuals like Nelson Rockefeller. Finally, the two reviewed the status of ceasefires in Southeast Asia, with Nixon justifying continued U.S. bombing in Laos as an incentive to finalize peace agreements.
President Nixon and Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield met to coordinate on administrative appointments and foreign policy developments. The two discussed potential candidates for a congressional committee, with Nixon expressing a preference for experienced figures like governors who could provide significant contributions. Additionally, Nixon provided a status report on the ongoing ceasefires in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, noting that current U.S. air operations serve as an incentive for continued compliance.
President Nixon met with incoming UN Ambassador John A. Scali and General Brent Scowcroft to discuss strategies for representing U.S. interests within the United Nations. Nixon emphasized that Scali should adopt a pragmatic approach, defend U.S. foreign policy, and actively challenge the 'double standard' often applied to the United States by smaller nations. The discussion also covered logistical improvements for the UN mission staff, the status of Vietnam POWs, and the administration's firm stance against international subversion, particularly regarding Cuba.
On February 13, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:47 am and 12:55 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-065 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Stephen B. Bull to coordinate a logistical plan for sending floral arrangements and personalized messages to the wives and mothers of returning prisoners of war. The discussion also addressed adjustments to the President's upcoming schedule, specifically prioritizing meetings with Donald Rumsfeld regarding his NATO assignment and Richard Helms prior to his departure. Nixon finalized these scheduling priorities, emphasizing the need for photographic records of these personnel transitions.
On February 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 7:41 pm and 7:43 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 043-128 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger spoke with William Downey to convey promising news regarding the impending release of his brother, John Downey, from captivity in the People's Republic of China. Based on Kissinger's negotiations with Zhou Enlai, the Chinese agreed to review John Downey's sentence in the second half of the year due to his exemplary behavior, with potential for an earlier release if Nixon personally appeals regarding the illness of Downey's mother. Kissinger advised William Downey to maintain strict confidentiality until a formal public announcement was made the following day.
President Nixon and H. R. Haldeman coordinate the recruitment of an unnamed woman for a new position, agreeing that Haldeman should manage the negotiation to distance the President from the personnel matter. They identify the need to move her out of an agency facing impending budget cuts and into a more prestigious role. To incentivize her acceptance, Nixon instructs Haldeman to highlight an upcoming major announcement regarding the People's Republic of China and a promised summer trip there.
Henry Kissinger and Secretary of State William Rogers coordinate a breakfast meeting with President Nixon to discuss the upcoming international conference, involving key diplomats William J. Porter and William H. Sullivan. Kissinger also provides a status report on his recent press conference, noting that his briefings on foreign aid were well-received. Furthermore, both men express confidence that political opposition, specifically from George McGovern, will remain ineffective as they anticipate minimal resistance to their foreign policy agenda.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss current press coverage and ongoing geopolitical tensions. The two men reviewed the positive reception of returning American POWs, noted the effectiveness of recent military strikes in Laos, and expressed frustration with critical media reports. Furthermore, Nixon criticized the Israeli government's lack of diplomatic flexibility in regional peace negotiations, contrasting it with more favorable recent developments in other international discussions.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the successful resolution of a standoff regarding the release of U.S. prisoners of war (POWs) in Vietnam. Kissinger reports that firm U.S. diplomatic pressure and military posturing—specifically the relocation of minesweeping assets—compelled North Vietnamese officials to agree to resume the prisoner releases. Nixon expresses relief and satisfaction in overcoming the stalling tactics, noting that this victory undermines media criticism that had suggested the peace process was collapsing. The two also briefly coordinate the President's upcoming meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir.
President Nixon met with Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir, Yitzhak Rabin, and Simcha Dinitz, along with Kissinger, Ziegler, and Scowcroft, to discuss a range of critical issues. Key topics included the ongoing Arab-Israeli conflict, US arms and economic aid to Israel, strategies for peace negotiations, and the treatment of Soviet Jews. Significant developments included Nixon proposing a private channel for exploring an interim settlement with Egypt, mediated by Kissinger, and assurances of continued US military aid to Israel, with specific numbers to be determined later. They also discussed the plight of Soviet Jews, with Nixon emphasizing the need for quiet diplomacy over public confrontation to achieve progress.
President Nixon met with Charles A. Meyer to review various ambassadorial appointments and discuss U.S. policy towards Latin America. The two assessed potential candidates for diplomatic posts, including the replacement for the ambassador in Mexico and leadership in Peru, while emphasizing the need for more effective engagement in the region. Nixon encouraged Meyer to remain available for future administrative assignments and international delegations, particularly regarding Inter-American affairs, following Meyer's transition back to the private sector at Sears.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discussed the administration's strategy for finalizing the Vietnam settlement and securing Congressional support for economic aid to North Vietnam. They also addressed the recent killing of U.S. diplomats in Sudan, with Nixon emphasizing a firm, no-ransom policy and planning a symbolic visit to the State Department to boost morale and show support for the Foreign Service. Additionally, the President reflected on the success of a recent White House performance by Sammy Davis, Jr., noting its historical significance regarding racial integration at the executive mansion.
President Nixon met with several returned prisoners of war (POWs) and their spouses, followed by a separate meeting with a Sudanese delegation led by Ambassador Abdel Aziz al-Nasri Hamza. During the POW meeting, the group discussed their experiences in North Vietnamese captivity, their support for the administration's Vietnam policies, and preparations for a future White House reception. Subsequently, the President engaged with the Sudanese representatives regarding the recent killing of U.S. diplomats in Khartoum, focusing on strengthening bilateral security cooperation and affirming a firm U.S. stance against international terrorism.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull discuss the implementation of Executive Order 11705, which mandated that American flags be flown at half-mast worldwide to honor a recently slain diplomat. The two review the progress of this directive as it is disseminated to State Department stations globally. This conversation serves as a status update confirming the administration's compliance with the ceremonial order.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discussed the strategic signaling of the administration's foreign policy following a meeting with German Ambassador Rolf Pauls. They evaluated the diplomatic necessity of pressing Chancellor Willy Brandt to ensure consistency between his private and public stances. Additionally, the President authorized an intensified aerial bombing campaign in Cambodia, insisting that strikes must be operationally significant rather than targeting minor assets like individual trucks.
President Nixon, George Shultz, and Henry Kissinger met to discuss international economic and diplomatic strategy, specifically focusing on the upcoming European monetary crisis and U.S.-Soviet relations. The group strategized how Shultz should handle European leaders, such as Helmut Schmidt, by providing leadership on currency stability without committing to unsustainable massive interventions. Regarding the Soviet Union, the participants agreed to prioritize trade and rapprochement while tactfully avoiding public focus on the issue of Soviet Jewry to ensure the success of pending trade agreements and upcoming summits. Additionally, the President provided guidance on managing relations with France during its upcoming elections and discussed administrative appointments and labor-management initiatives.
On March 8, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 12:46 pm and 12:53 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 872-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger and Soviet Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin to finalize arrangements for Leonid Brezhnev’s upcoming visit to the United States. The participants discussed the summit's itinerary, including social events at San Clemente and Camp David, while emphasizing the importance of a successful outcome to solidify US-USSR relations. They also addressed major policy objectives, specifically negotiating a binding agreement on the prevention of nuclear war and managing strategic arms limitations.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger spoke with William Downey to inform him that the People's Republic of China, following negotiations with Chou En-lai, had agreed to release his brother, John T. Downey, on the following Monday. The participants discussed the timing of the official White House announcement scheduled for 3:00 p.m. and acknowledged the urgency of the release due to concerns regarding the health of John Downey’s mother. The call concluded with William Downey expressing gratitude for the administration's successful intervention.
President Nixon calls Governor Thomas J. Meskill to share the positive news that his direct appeal to Chou En-Lai successfully secured the release of American prisoner John T. Downey. Nixon explains that the release was prompted by the poor health of Downey’s mother and notes that the People's Republic of China has also agreed to release two additional U.S. flyers the following Wednesday. Nixon instructs Meskill to inform his office immediately before the official White House announcement to prevent media leaks.
On March 14, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:01 am and 11:02 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-100 of the White House Tapes.
On March 21, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:53 pm and 4:58 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 037-194 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon consulted Secretary of State William P. Rogers regarding the most effective way to persuade Canadian Prime Minister Pierre E. Trudeau to keep Canada in the International Commission of Control and Supervision (ICCS). The two agreed that Nixon would send a personal letter to Trudeau followed by a telephone call to emphasize that global leadership depends on continued Canadian participation, while avoiding the appearance of undue American pressure. Rogers also cleared a joke with the President regarding executive privilege to be used during an upcoming social event with the diplomatic corps.
On March 22, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at 3:28 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-014 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau regarding the International Commission of Control and Supervision (ICCS) in Vietnam. Nixon emphasized the importance of Canada's continued participation, despite pressures to withdraw, and assured Trudeau that the U.S. would use its influence to encourage cooperation with the ICCS and compliance with ceasefire provisions. They discussed the critical timing of Trudeau's decision following the withdrawal of U.S. troops and POWs, with Nixon suggesting a delayed withdrawal would be "extremely helpful" to avoid a "devastating psychological blowback." Nixon also mentioned he would discuss the matter with Secretary Shultz.
On March 22, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and the White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 4:01 pm and 4:02 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 044-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon briefed Secretary of State William P. Rogers on a telephone conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Pierre E. Trudeau regarding Canada’s participation in the International Commission of Control and Supervision (ICCS). Nixon pressed for Canada to remain in the commission for at least a few more months to avoid the appearance that their departure caused the mission’s collapse. Rogers was instructed to follow up with Canadian Foreign Minister Mitchell Sharp to finalize this commitment after the Canadian cabinet reviewed the matter.
President Nixon informed William Rogers about his recent phone call with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau regarding trade issues and a potential Canadian decision to "stay on" for several months. Nixon conveyed that Trudeau would have Sharp contact Rogers the following day to discuss their position, and Nixon also mentioned he had spoken with George Shultz about the matter and intended to follow up with Sharp to reinforce the administration's position while the issue was still active.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate strategy for the President's upcoming public address and evaluate the status of the Vietnam settlement, including the release of prisoners of war (POWs) and ongoing military enforcement. The discussion emphasized the necessity of a strong, firm posture to deter further North Vietnamese aggression and maintain the credibility of U.S. foreign policy. Additionally, they reviewed plans for future diplomatic outreach, including potential summits with European and Latin American leaders, and discussed the political landscape surrounding the Watergate investigation.
On March 27, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and H. R. ("Bob") Haldeman met in the President's office in the Old Executive Office Building at an unknown time between 3:18 pm and 3:27 pm. The Old Executive Office Building taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 423-010 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon met with Soviet Minister of Culture Yekaterina Furtseva, Ambassador Anatoliy Dobrynin, and Henry Kissinger to discuss the state of US-USSR cultural exchanges and diplomatic relations. The participants exchanged gifts, including a Russian painting for the President, and reflected on the improved climate of cooperation between the two nations since 1959. Nixon emphasized that strengthening US-Soviet relations remains a primary goal of his presidency, expressing mutual respect for the leadership of Leonid Brezhnev and Aleksei Kosygin.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger to discuss the geopolitical implications of Jewish immigration to the USSR and the potential for a visit by Leonid Brezhnev. Following this, outgoing Indian Ambassador Lakshmi Kant Jha joined the President for a farewell discussion aimed at improving strained U.S.-India relations. Nixon emphasized the necessity of a constructive partnership between the world's two largest democracies, citing shared interests in peace and freedom while seeking to dispel perceptions of personal anti-Indian bias.
President Nixon recorded a memorandum for the file to document his views on ongoing diplomatic and political issues. The dictation addressed the status of the Vietnam settlement, specifically referencing the roles of Anatoliy Dobrynin and Henry Kissinger and the impact of prolonging the war. He also touched upon press relations and his engagements with leaders of the Jewish community.
President Nixon met with NATO Secretary General Joseph M. A. Luns, accompanied by Donald Rumsfeld and Henry Kissinger, to conduct diplomatic discussions regarding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The meeting commenced with a formal photograph session and included an exchange of gifts, specifically cufflinks. While the majority of the policy discussions remain classified, the interaction served as a high-level engagement to maintain relations with the NATO leadership.
President Nixon and Stephen B. Bull reviewed the presidential schedule, focusing specifically on a proposed meeting with Jewish leaders regarding the status of Soviet Jews. Nixon expressed significant reservations about participating in the meeting personally, fearing it might be unproductive or poorly received. He instructed Bull to consult Henry Kissinger for advice on whether the meeting should proceed without his attendance.
On April 28, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 9:01 am and 9:02 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 164-005 of the White House Tapes.
On April 29, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Camp David operator talked on the telephone at Camp David at an unknown time between 10:25 am and 10:26 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 164-029 of the White House Tapes.
On May 1, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at 7:10 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-114 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate foreign policy messaging and prepare for upcoming diplomatic engagements, specifically Kissinger’s trip to Moscow to negotiate bilateral agreements and a nuclear treaty. The conversation addressed the logistical handling of a foreign policy report and the necessity of maintaining operational secrecy regarding Vietnam negotiations despite internal bureaucracy. Furthermore, they discussed the political fallout of the Watergate scandal, specifically evaluating the appointment of Elliot Richardson and the public perception of the administration's ongoing investigations.
On May 3, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 10:12 am and 10:13 am. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-156 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Secretary of State William P. Rogers discuss the difficulty of finding qualified personnel for an unspecified position, weighing the challenges of legal and financial complications against the need for a mature, capable candidate. The conversation touches on the frustrations of delegating authority to individuals who attempt to overreach their roles, specifically mentioning a candidate who demanded control over staff appointments. Nixon ultimately expresses a desire to avoid hasty decisions regarding these personnel matters and briefly confirms Rogers’s upcoming diplomatic trip to Latin America.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discussed public perception of the administration during the ongoing Watergate fallout, specifically regarding the recent appearances of John Mitchell and Maurice Stans. Nixon expressed a desire to frame these events as evidence of proactive accountability while cautioning against being swayed by negative media narratives. The two also touched upon diplomatic strategy, specifically determining how to handle public messaging regarding upcoming summit announcements.
On May 10, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:00 pm and 3:02 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 045-190 of the White House Tapes.
On May 15, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 10:45 am and 11:07 am. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 918-016 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to discuss the logistics and morale surrounding Kissinger’s upcoming diplomatic trip to Paris. The President reflected on his recent meeting with Haile Selassie and offered encouragement to Kissinger, emphasizing the significance of his mission despite the administration's broader political stresses. The exchange served primarily to bolster Kissinger’s confidence and confirm the scheduling for his departure.
President Nixon calls Senator Hugh Scott to commend his recent public defense of the administration, specifically regarding the Watergate scandal. Nixon encourages Scott to emphasize the importance of national security and secrecy in facilitating major foreign policy achievements, such as diplomatic relations with China and the Soviet Union, and the return of POWs from Vietnam. By framing the protection of sensitive information as vital to peace negotiations, Nixon urges Scott to contrast the administration's national security efforts with the actions of those who leak classified materials.
President Nixon met with Henry Kissinger and a delegation of journalists from the People's Republic of China to discuss the ongoing normalization of relations between the two nations. Emphasizing the importance of mutual communication, Nixon highlighted the role of the press in fostering understanding and reaffirmed his commitment to building a constructive relationship with Chinese leadership. During the visit, the President presented the delegation with commemorative pens and expressed his personal desire to visit China again during his second term.
President Nixon and Alexander Haig coordinate the logistics of a meeting with South Vietnamese Ambassador Tran Kim Phuong. Following a message from Henry Kissinger regarding the Ambassador’s status, the President instructs Haig to contact the Ambassador to ensure he remains in the country. They conclude the discussion by determining whether the President’s personal presence at the upcoming meeting is necessary.
President Richard Nixon and his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, discussed the President's upcoming travel and logistical schedule regarding the official visit of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. The conversation centered on the timeline for meetings at Camp David, the state dinner, and a potential trip to California. Nixon noted that while his travel plans remained flexible due to the heavy workload at the White House, he emphasized the historic significance of the summit.
On June 12, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 11:17 pm and 11:26 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 040-051 of the White House Tapes.
On June 18, 1973, Henry A. Kissinger and unknown person(s) met in the Oval Office of the White House at an unknown time between 3:46 pm and 5:49 pm. The Oval Office taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 944-009 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate the logistics and messaging for the ongoing visit of Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, including scheduling, guest lists for the Sequoia, and ensuring the summit's historic significance was properly emphasized. Kissinger advised on managing the press and briefing Allies, while the pair also discussed the political damage caused by the Watergate scandal. Nixon expressed frustration with the Ervin Committee hearings and Republican congressional behavior, deciding to postpone a public response until after John Dean’s testimony concluded.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger met to coordinate the final arrangements and diplomatic strategy for Leonid Brezhnev’s upcoming visit to the United States. They discussed the scheduling of official events, the management of press and public relations regarding various bilateral agreements, and strategies to mitigate potential protests or political interference. Additionally, the pair touched upon ongoing domestic political pressures, specifically the impact of the Watergate hearings and their frustration with Congressional leadership.
On June 20, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon and Henry A. Kissinger talked on the telephone at Camp David from 11:24 am to 11:25 am. The Camp David Study Table taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 169-020 of the White House Tapes.
On June 21, 1973, Henry A. Kissinger and White House operator talked on the telephone at an unknown time between 3:55 pm and 4:08 pm. The White House Telephone taping system captured this recording, which is known as Conversation 041-023 of the White House Tapes.
President Nixon contacted Speaker of the House Carl Albert to lobby against further congressional restrictions on military operations in Cambodia during the pending Second Supplemental Appropriations Act. Nixon argued that maintaining tactical air support is essential to leverage ongoing diplomatic efforts with the Soviet Union, China, and local factions to secure a peace settlement. He warned that if the House adopted the more restrictive stance favored by the Senate, he would be forced to veto the bill, shifting the political responsibility for any resulting instability onto Congress.
President Nixon consulted with an unknown aide regarding the status of Henry Kissinger’s current schedule and his ongoing meetings with Leonid Brezhnev. The discussion focused on coordinating a potential phone conversation between the President and Kissinger, who was occupied with events in the East Room involving business leaders. The exchange served as a brief administrative check-in to facilitate direct communication during the diplomatic visit.
President Nixon consulted his daughter, Tricia Nixon Cox, regarding appropriate reciprocal gifts for Viktoria Brezhnev and her family following the US-USSR summit. The President suggested obtaining high-quality watches from a New York City craftsman, noting that Rose Mary Woods could facilitate the request. He tasked Tricia with coordinating with her mother and sister, Julie, to finalize the selection of gifts.
President Nixon and Press Secretary Ronald Ziegler discuss the positive media coverage surrounding the summit with Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and the recent Agreement on the Prevention of Nuclear War. Nixon emphasizes that the success of these diplomatic efforts rests on the personal commitment and political will of both leaders to maintain the agreement. He instructs Ziegler to ensure Henry Kissinger conveys this narrative of mutual resolve to the press, highlighting the significance of the shift in US-Soviet relations.
President Nixon and Henry Kissinger discuss the successful negotiation of a new agreement with the Soviet Union, characterizing the deal as a diplomatic masterpiece. Nixon instructs Kissinger to brief the press on the significance of the agreement, emphasizing that the treaty's strength lies in the personal relationship between the leaders and the mutual commitment to avoid the use of force. They also express relief at avoiding potential congressional hurdles by deciding that formal legislative approval is not required for the treaty.