‘Low-Intensity’ Conflicts

Messing evidences a total insularity in regard to the consistent American anti-communist foreign policy pursued since the end of World War II.

Whether pursued by a Democratic or Republican administration, the interpretation of geopolitics has been compatible. Any shades of differences between them have been blurred by an anti-communism that has become orthodoxy.

Harry Truman expressed his concern for the threat of communism in the Truman Doctrine. John Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson, although liberal on domestic policy, were hawkish in containing communism.

Messing would like the United States to address simultaneously the social, political, economic and military concerns of the countries in conflict. He will have to wait until our government eliminates the threat of communism in Latin America.

Our failure to contain communism in Asia raises the question as to the propriety of our actions in Latin America.

We became militarily involved in Vietnam because of our concern for the spread of communism (Chinese communism) in Asia. Now, with a friendly China, adopting more of our values, we realize that we can tolerate the Chinese type of communism. If we can reach a similar accommodation with Russian communism, we shall be ready to address Messing’s concerns. To date, the implementation appears remote.

JOSEPH WALDBAUM

North Hollywood