740.0011 European War 1939/12311: Telegram
The Minister in Rumania (Gunther) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5:44 p.m.]
569. Hostilities broke out early this morning between Germany and Rumania on the one hand and Russia on the other. Two proclamations issued by General Antonescu, one to the people and one to the army, state that the moment has come to wage a Holy War, to fight at the side of the great German people for the preservation of the civilization of the world, to revenge the humiliation and injustice (of Russia’s seizure just a year ago of Bessarabia and Northern Bukowina), to liberate the brothers that have been entombed and to repatriate the honor of the churches and homes that have been insulted by the invading [Page 316] pagans. General Antonescu thanks the German Fuehrer for giving the Rumanian nation the opportunity to fight not only for its own rights but to destroy Bolshevism.
Authoritative information as to military operations is lacking; it is reported however that Cernauti has already been occupied by the Rumanians and Germans and there is another less credible rumor that Chisinau has likewise been occupied.
Last night senior members of the Diplomatic Corps were advised by high Government officials to establish themselves in Sinaia. The Government, however, is still in Bucharest and apparently has no intention of leaving, although many ministerial archives have already been evacuated.
There are few American citizens in Bucharest other than the Legation staff and I understand they have no intention of leaving for the present. My wife and Mrs. Benton and also Mrs. Newbegin (stranded here en route to Ankara due to lack of transportation) are at Predeal or are going there. I have suggested that the American women clerks also evacuate to Predeal but they all prefer to remain in Bucharest for the moment.