340.1115A/546: Telegram
The Minister in Yugoslavia (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 20—7:40 p.m.]
134. Department’s 20, April 19.24 Our estimate of the number of Americans in Yugoslavia who might desire to return to the United States is 450. Of these about 134 would be without funds and would not leave unless at Government expense.
In view of the present situation another circular letter similar to the one sent last fall is being sent to all Americans in Yugoslavia suggesting that they consider returning to the United States.
In my opinion the most logical route for the evacuation of American citizens from Yugoslavia to the United States is via Italy to Genoa for departure on a vessel of the United States Lines. Transit visas are of course obtainable under present conditions. Failing this I should suggest evacuation from an Adriatic, Yugoslav port by an American vessel. Despite recent developments I do not feel that the situation yet warrants evacuation of all Americans. The wives and children of the staffs of the Legation and Consulates are remaining in Yugoslavia for the time being.
While we are prepared for emergencies I do not anticipate an immediate crisis.