861.01/186a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Great Britain ( Davis )

[Paraphrase]

95. Supplementing our telegram no. 82, repeated to you from Paris.83 Press statements repeat that Mr. Lloyd George is considering introducing a discussion of the situation in Russia at the next Premiers’ meeting which is to take place early in February at London. The possibility is indicated by these reports that a proposal will be made for the recognition of the Soviet Government or [Page 702] that some move be made which will imply recognition eventually or lead to a closer understanding with the Government of Soviet Russia.

Do not commit the United States to any policy, but call the attention of Mr. Lloyd George to the fact that such reports are current in this country and try to find out whether or not any such proposals are being contemplated by him. The fact that any Allied action regarding Russia is of the greatest concern to the United States might be stressed by you and also that it would be of the greatest help to this Government if information could be received in advance regarding proposals which will be made the basis of discussions by the Premiers. …

Lansing
  1. Not printed.