File No. 871.51/51
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 21, 4.10 a.m.]
1640. Also for Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of War. Evacuation Roumania, likely in near future, gives rise to great perplexities. Roumanian troops about 300,000, if compelled leave Roumania will lose spirit and perhaps disintegrate. Feeling resentful toward Russia because think she could have protected Roumania if she desired. Roumania inopportunely entered war unprepared and Roumanian Minister says under pressure of Allies and promises [Page 725] for their [aid] which were never fulfilled. If Roumania abandoned, enemy would form de facto Government with some de jure claim as many Roumanians would support it and, in our opinion, separate peace. Only possible help for situation is financial assistance from ourselves. Cost of maintaining Roumanian Government and Army about $10,000,000 monthly. Such assistance would probably save Roumania whose fate hopeless if country abandoned. Such action by us would meet Russia’s hearty approval, delight our allies, and in many ways inure to our profit. Roumanian Army and Government now sustained by Russia who is groaning under her own load. Most or all such credit would be expended in Russia or in the United States. I ask authority to extend such credit with proper safeguards and careful conditions. I realize responsibility devolving upon myself if this recommendation approved but consider situation critical and risk justified by importance of keeping Roumania in war and preserving army of 250,000 men. Moral effect upon Russian sentiment be highly beneficial. Time is essential element and prompt reply respectfully requested. Delay probably fatal.