However, the Netherlands attempted to reestablish their colony during a prolonged war that lasted for four and a half years.

The United States immediately recognized the independence of Indonesia and moved to establish diplomatic relations.

A U.S. embassy was established in Jakarta on December 27, 1949, under the informal direction of a consul general.

President Truman appointed H. Merle Cochran as ambassador the following day.

The United States Embassy in Indonesia is located in Jakarta, with consulates in Surabaya and Medan, and a consular agency in Bali.