File No. 861.00/1638
The Minister in Sweden ( Morris ) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 24, 10.20 a.m.]
1931. Swedish press reports from Berlin: Imperial Chancellor received an Esthonian-Livonian deputation in general headquarters on April 21. He thanked deputation for confidence in Kaiser and expressed Kaiser’s willingness to take countries, represented by National Council, under military protection of German Empire, support them [in] their endeavors [to] set themselves free from Russia, and recognize them as independent state. The desire of National Council to form a constitutional state, in personal union with Prussia, would be taken under consideration by Emperor whereupon National Council would be notified as to decision taken. Swedish newspaper, Stockholms Dagblad, comments Hertling confines himself to state willingness Emperor recognize these territories as an independent state. Thus there has been no actual recognition, but German Government still regards these countries belonging formally to Russia although can count on German support in endeavors to divorce Russia. Concerning request for personal union, Hertling promises consideration, no more no less. That is all he can promise before Federal Council and Reichstag have expressed themselves. Position of Esthonia, Livonia is consequently another than that of Lithuania and Courland whose independence already been recognized by Germany.