740.0011 European War 1939/7491: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany (Morris) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:49 p.m.]
48. My 21, January 4, 5 p.m. Over the week end rumors were in circulation in Berlin that British troops had landed on the Greek mainland and that German forces were passing through Bulgaria against the protest but without resistance from the Bulgarian Government. It is possible that these rumors were deliberately inspired for purposes of confusion. Following the receipt of a [apparent omission] Weizsaecker4 called on the Greek Minister,4a stated that the Fuhrer5 appreciated and reciprocated the greeting. He then inquired why the Greek Government had permitted the British to land troops in Greece. The Greek Minister denied the truth of this report stating that only British quartermaster and aviation units were assisting the Greek land forces. Weizsaecker indicated that the German Government was aware of, and not disturbed by, the presence of British aviation and supply services. To a question as to the origin of the report Weizsaecker made no reply except to suggest that the Minister inquire of his Government.
The Minister received from Athens a denial to his inquiry.