862.20/747: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union ( Wiley ) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 20—12:05 p.m.]
11. A Soviet press release published today states that 1074 suspects have been deported from Leningrad to Eastern points. They are largely former nobility, landowners and officers.
I am informed through unofficial Soviet sources that actual figures are greatly in excess of the numbers officially announced and that all Western border zones are being carefully combed in order to eliminate doubtful elements.
This drastic action clearly responds to Soviet apprehension of German aggression which has been accentuated by British note of protest over German conscription which is considered so mild as to confirm worst Soviet fears. Press comment, though veiled, also reflects considerable dissatisfaction with the attitude of Flandin and Laval.