Two months ago, a Federation starship monitored an explosion on the Klingon moon, Praxis....

Captain Spock: Two months ago, a Federation starship monitored an explosion on the Klingon moon, Praxis. We believe it was the result of over-mining and insufficient safety precautions. The moon's decimation means a deadly contamination of their ozone layer. They will have depleted their supply of oxygen in approximately fifty Earth years. Due to their enormous military budget the Klingons do not have the resources to combat this catastrophe. Last month, at the behest of the Vulcan ambassador, I opened a dialogue with Gorkon, Klingon chancellor of the High Council. He proposes to begin negotiations at once. Admiral Cartwright: Negotiations for what? Captain Spock: The dismantling of our starbases and outposts along the Neutral Zone, an end to nearly 70 years of unremitting hostility which the Klingons can no longer afford.

The moon's decimation means the deadly pollution of their ozone. They will have depleted their supply of oxygen in approximately 50 Earth years. Due to their enormous military budget, the Klingon economy does not have the resources with which to combat this catastrophe. Last month, at the behest of the Vulcan ambassador, I opened a dialogue with Gorkon, Chancellor of the Klingon High Council. He proposes to commence negotiations at once. Negotiations for what? The dismantling of our space stations and starbases along the neutral zone, an end to almost 70 years of unremitting hostility, which the Klingons can no longer afford. Bill, are we talking about mothballing the Starfleet? Well, I'm sure that our exploration and scientific programs would be unaffected, Captain, but... I must protest. To offer Klingons safe haven within Federation space is suicide. Klingons would become the alien trash of the galaxy, and if we dismantle the fleet, we'd be defenseless before an aggressive species with a foothold on our territory. The opportunity here is to bring them to their knees. Then we'll be in a far better position to dictate terms. Sir? Captain Kirk. The Klingons have never been trustworthy. I'm forced to agree with Admiral Cartwright. This is a terrifying idea. It is imperative that we act now to support the Gorkon initiative lest more conservative elements persuade his empire that it is better to attempt a military solution and die fighting. You, Captain Kirk, are to be our first olive branch. We have volunteered to rendezvous with the Klingon vessel which is bringing Chancellor Gorkon to Earth and to escort him safely through Federation space. Me? Well, there are Klingons who feel the same way about the peace treaty as yourself and Admiral Cartwright, but they'll think twice about attacking the Enterprise under your command. I have personally vouched for you in this matter, Captain. You have personally vouched? You will extend Chancellor Gorkon full diplomatic courtesy, Captain Kirk. But a full ambassador would be better equipped... If there's no further business, I wish you and your crew Godspeed. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I remind you, this meeting is classified.