File No. 763.72/5231
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 9, 9.20 a.m.]
1364. Minister of Foreign Affairs just left Embassy. Says Allies much annoyed at Italy’s action in declaring Albanian independence under Italian protectorate. Is much more elated, however, at improved conditions in army but still thinks publication of the President’s message would interfere with very satisfactory progress in improvement. Very desirous President should see unofficial letter transmitted verbatim in my 1357, June 4, 6 p.m. Requests message be not published there until date fixed here and promises to name before June 12 a date for release. Thinks immaterial but considered message reply to Milyukov note although addressed Provisional Government and states Government, which is Council of Ministers, felt highly complimented therefor. Explains commending message May 30 and suggesting alterations June 2 by saying conditions such May 30 as not affected by message but showed such decided improvement June 2 that feared betterment would be impaired by its publication. Realizes is asking much in requesting delay in publication which if granted I think should be satisfactory without any alteration except “war has begun to go against Germany,” omission of which would not materially affect paragraph which excellent as is entire message.