Richard Nixon actually said...
We have to realize that other developments have occurred over the past 5 1/2 years that will have far more lasting and far greater effect in terms of building a peaceful world than simply ending that war on the kind of a just and honorable basis that was essential if we were able to continue to play the role of world leader.
Context
Remarks at a Dinner in Bel Air, California, Honoring the President
07/20/1974