740.0011 European War 1939/3874: Telegram

The Chargé in Estonia ( Leonard ) to the Secretary of State

64. Following up telegrams Nos. 62 and 63. I have been confidentially informed that a new Estonian government will not be formed until after conferences with and approval of Soviet authorities. Soviet troops crossed the Estonian Russian border early this morning. Also troops by sea are arriving. I am also informed that Tallinn, Pärnu, Tartu41 and Valga and possibly other places eventually will be occupied.

I have learned confidentially that the “demands” of yesterday were telegraphed through the Estonian Minister at Moscow about the middle of the afternoon and required reply by midnight of the same day.

I have also been informed that flying and steamship services with Finland and Sweden are temporarily suspended and during at least next 2 days vessels destined for Tallinn will be diverted to Paldiski.42

Repeated to Riga.

Leonard
  1. Dorpat, Yuryev.
  2. Baltiski, Baltic port.