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!!! Move lore to main page below once JV posts the evacuation map
=== Withdrawal of Dutch forces (1975-1976) ===
==== Operation Vertrek ====
Despite General van Langen's concerns, Haverman remained determined to withdraw Dutch forces from the war. As a result, Van Langen and his team began formulating an exit strategy. In December 1974, Van Langen presented his plan, known as ''Operation Vertrek''. The operation was expected to unfold over approximately a year and a half, with an emphasis on neutralizing existing infrastructure that could potentially be utilized by the SLA. It would be executed in distinct phases, requiring sustained high-intensity combat to secure strategic positions and prevent the loss of ground. The strategy was officially approved on the same day that Djambi suffered widespread devastation due to a Soendanese incursion against Dutch forces.
In the early stages of Operation Vertrek, the plan was intricate. Although it was never explicitly stated, there was a tacit understanding that the puppet regime in Batavia would not endure. This particular aspect of the plan had minimal impact on military operations, as many individuals within the government were effectively under Dutch influence. However, the decision did have repercussions on social services provided by the puppet regime and the taxation system. Native bureaucrats within the KNIL grew increasingly disheartened, contributing to a budding atmosphere of dissent.
The decision to withdraw also impacted the morale of the non-commissioned officer (NCO) corps. These career soldiers, who had experienced significant losses among their comrades, began to question the reasons behind their ongoing service. Although combat operations maintained an appearance of effectiveness, signs of discontent emerged within the barracks. This sentiment also extended to the general infantry, who, despite the Netherlands' decision to withdraw, still faced conscription, rotations, and demanding combat conditions.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Soenda Liberation Army (SLA) celebrated the Dutch decision to withdraw, heralding it as a morale victory. This boost in morale further invigorated the SLA, adding to their determination to continue fighting.
==== Loss of Eastern Java (July 1976) ====
In March 1976, the eastern urban areas of Java were on the brink of an impending attack by the SLA, prompting meticulous preparations by the Dutch for their evacuation from the region. As they left, they also undertook the destruction of key military installations along their path. This departure created a significant power vacuum in Eastern Java, one that the SLA quickly exploited.
By July 1976, the SLA launched coordinated offensives in the strategic cities of Soerabaja (Surabaya), Djember (Jember), and Malang, successfully capturing these vital urban centers. In anticipation of the SLA's arrival, the local population was swift to eradicate any remnants of Dutch influence, which included the removal of Dutch flags, the abandonment of Dutch clothing, and the elimination of other symbols associated with Dutch colonialism.
=== Fall of Batavia ===
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