740.0011 European War 1939/7960: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Phillips) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 28—8:20 a.m.]
126. My 102, January 22, 7 p.m.13 According to source heretofore reliable, the only definite decision reached at the Berchtesgaden meeting14 was for German military support in Albania to ensure prompt and successful conclusion of war against Greece. Strong counteroffensive to be launched soon as weather permits; large numbers Italian troops being called for service Albania, and German soldiers already on way to Italian embarkation ports.
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The reference to German military support in Albania is unexpected as our information up to now has been that German intervention in that sector was unlikely.
[Page 641]Military Attaché is cabling on reported arrival during last few days of two divisions German troops.