740.0011 European War 1939/9183: Telegram
The Minister in Yugoslavia (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 20—11:45 a.m.]
212. For the Secretary and Under Secretary. I learn the following indirectly from the highest quarters: During German negotiations Yugoslavs put forward proposals which they felt sure Germans would refuse. Yugoslavs now in embarrassing position because Germans have accepted terms. Question up for decision by Regency and Cabinet this morning. Yugoslavs will attempt delay signature of pact, terms of which unknown to us, on ground that public opinion would [Page 959] oppose it. British are arguing that German acceptance of seemingly absurd terms is proof of German weakness and should encourage Yugoslavs to refuse to sign. Croatian elements who favor compromise with Germany oppose refusal to sign.
Have reason to believe that Stojadinović56 has been secretly removed to Greece.
- Milan Stojadinović, former Yugoslav Prime Minister.↩