Office of the Historian

340.1115A/622a: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Minister in Yugoslavia (Lane)

Washington, May 16, 1940—5 p.m.

30. 1. Considering late developments and the possible extension of hostilities to other areas, including your own, than are already involved, you may deem it advisable now to invite Americans in your district to return to the United States while there still remains opportunity for them to do so.

2. In the event that Italy should come into the war, you will advise Americans in your district desiring to return home not to proceed via continental Europe or through the Mediterranean.

Repeat to:

[Here follow detailed instructions for repetition to Athens, Bucharest, Budapest, and Sofia.]

Hull