740.0011 European War 1939/3839: Telegram

The Minister in Lithuania ( Norem ) to the Secretary of State

107. Russian armored divisions crossed the Lithuanian border at several points at 2 p.m. today following Moscow rejection of Rastikis’ appointment. Demands said to include a favorable government with possible Communist inclusion, the trial of former Lithuanian Minister of the Interior and of the Director of Security, increased garrisons and free movement of troops. The Lithuanian Government accepted and Soviet Minister and Assistant Soviet Commissar [Page 369] for Foreign Affairs28 left Moscow by plane at noon. Lithuanian Government awaits their arrival before making further proposals. Attitude here of officials one of great tension and apprehension.

Norem
  1. Vladimir Georgevich Dekanozov.