National Security Action Memorandum 263

National Security Action Memorandum 263, issued in 1963, was a U.S. government directive that authorized President Kennedy to begin troop withdrawals from Vietnam, signaling a shift toward de-escalation. It recommended reducing U.S. military presence gradually, emphasizing diplomatic and political solutions rather than increased military engagement. The memo aimed to reassure allies and manage Cold War tensions while indicating a move towards disengagement from Vietnam, reflecting evolving American strategies in the conflict.