- Condemnation: The U.S. government strongly condemned the construction of the Berlin Wall, calling it a violation of human rights and an attempt to divide the city of Berlin. President John F. Kennedy visited West Berlin in 1963 and gave a famous speech in front of the wall, declaring that "Ich bin ein Berliner" (I am a Berliner).
- Military Response: The U.S. increased its military presence in West Berlin and reinforced the U.S. Army's 7th Army stationed in the city. The U.S. and its allies also conducted several military exercises and maneuvers in West Germany to demonstrate their commitment to defending West Berlin.
- Diplomatic Efforts: The U.S. engaged in diplomatic efforts to pressure the Soviet Union and East Germany to remove the wall. The U.S. negotiated with the Soviet Union over arms control and other issues, and used these negotiations as leverage to try to get concessions on the Berlin Wall.
- Support for West Germany: The U.S. provided economic and political support to West Germany and West Berlin. The U.S. helped West Germany rebuild its economy and provided financial assistance to West Berlin to help it resist economic pressures from East Germany.
- Cultural and Propaganda Efforts: The U.S. engaged in cultural and propaganda efforts to highlight the negative aspects of the Berlin Wall and promote the idea of a free and united Germany. The U.S. Information Service (USIS) produced films, radio broadcasts, and other materials that were critical of the wall and promoted the idea of German reunification.
Overall, the U.S. response to the Berlin Wall was a combination of condemnation, military and diplomatic pressure, support for West Germany, and cultural and propaganda efforts. The Berlin Wall remained in place until it was finally demolished in 1989.