740.0011 European War 1939/10089¼: Telegram

The Ambassador in France (Leahy) to the Secretary of State

[Extract]20

461.…

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He [Marshal Pétain] then of his own accord brought up the German demand to increase the personnel of their Control Commissions in North Africa to 200 (my telegrams no. 455 April 17, 1 p.m., and 456, April 17, 7 p.m.). All his efforts to prevent this had been of no avail; he is helpless. I said that his very question was object of my visit and told him frankly of the effect that such increase of German personnel in that area might have on our plans for supplying North Africa with its vital needs, as well as for the unoccupied zone. He said that he had obtained from the Germans a promise that the number would not be increased above the 200. How long they would keep that promise judging by the past he did not know but told them frankly that if they did not keep it, there was no reason for him to continue his efforts to get along with them. He has reason to believe, he said, that they have troubles enough elsewhere, in the Balkans, for instance, and their uncertainty as to Russia’s attitude; in every country Germany has occupied, feeling is rising. He does not know whether there will be peace this year but if there is, all the conquered peoples will cause them trouble. If the Germans break their promise and raise their Commission numbers to over 200, he said he will let me know. In any event he is sending a “more energetic officer” to Morocco as Resident General. Weygand is doing a very good job but does not always get along with all his subordinates so Noguès is to be removed. (He did not mention the name of his successor. Nor do I know yet the full significance of the change.)

I spoke to him about the reports, that De Brinon is issuing visas to Germans for North Africa in Paris. He replied: “Of course it’s true. It’s difficult to stop it. He is completely the Germans’ man. However, I have one hold over him: he does not want to lose his job. I have now insisted that he telephone Vichy before he issues any visas.”

He seemed discouraged but genuinely pleased to see me and to talk over his troubles. Only twice did he evince hope for the future: Once when he spoke of French unity behind him, and again when he talked [Page 295] of the United States, and of our growing strength; and of our chance of saving Europe from the famine which will come next year. He did not speak of a German victory but he did say that he thought England would be “demolished” by air attack.

Leahy
  1. For first part of this telegram, see p. 151.