Confidential

December 20, 1968

MEMO TO HENRY KISSINGER

From Buchanan

Was in contact with a Soviet Press Man from the UN the other night for an hour or so--and Haldeman suggested I give you a fill.

They are intensely interested in whether or not your article speaks for the President--elect, or can be stated as his views on the matter. My only response to this was that RN's views on Vietnam now are best ascertained by his own statements in the campaign and before---which views I iterated to him.

A second topic of interest is in whether or not Mr. Nixon intends to meet directly with Kosygin in the coming year; they felt they had made quite a gesture with their telegram of ~~immediate~~ congratulations and with the restrained propaganda line. They did seem quite interested in the possibility of a meeting in the coming year.

Third topic discussed was the Middle East, where he seemed to be concerned about Dayan's influence in Israel; and where he agreed that the danger of some sort of U.S. soviet involvement was high---if things deteriorated. He seemed to agree that the Soviets and Americans should talk early on the subject---but there was intense interest as to what level talks should come.

Fourth, he stated that he recognized that their propaganda about the Destroyers in the Black Sea was just that and that they considered it actually "routine."

These meetings are from this individual's vantage point something of an information gathering process, which I have been par-

DEC 21 1968

taking of for about a year now.

I have generally restricted my own role to clear enunciation
of what Nixon's position are, as stated in the public press, and
in his speeches.

If you wish I shall be happy to continue the contact with
him—the only use from our side thus far I would think is what
is foremost in their minds at some particular time. I get nothing
else of value—except for a can of caviar and some Russian vodka.

I am sure he will be calling again when we get to Washington.
Any way you want me to proceed on this would be fine. Anything for
you want transmitted, be happy to do so.

Buchanan