124.61/187: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union ( Steinhardt ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:34 p.m.]
1261. In view of the increasing discrepancy between German claims and Soviet admissions as to the present front, and as it will not be possible for us to leave Moscow by automobile, plane or railroad without the active cooperation of the Soviet authorities, who decline to discuss the possible need for rapid evacuation of Moscow, I shall appreciate any information the Department may be able to give me from time to time regarding the probable positions of the German forces.
I desire to take such steps as may be possible, notwithstanding any failure by the Soviet Government to warn the Diplomatic Corps of its intention to leave or of the imminence of the fall of Moscow, to move the Embassy eastward before it is too late.