740.0011 European War 1939/12384: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 23—11:45 p.m.]
796. For the Secretary and Under Secretary. From the standpoint of the potentialities of this area in the further prosecution of the war, I hope that the German attack on Soviet Russia will be regarded merely as furnishing a possible temporary respite during which the military machine here may be strengthened with all speed both for the purpose of resistance as well as for an eventual striking force against Nazi power in the Mediterranean, the Balkans and the Middle East. To that end the measures already adopted should continue unabated and no additional effort, both in the United States and in the British Empire, should be spared.
By the same token British air action against Germany should be accentuated and every advantage should be taken of the present Nazi concentration to the east without relying upon the strength, the duration and even the sincerity of Soviet resistance or without taking comfort [Page 280] from the thought that this last venture of Hitler’s may bring his downfall. It is certain that no reliance can be placed on the continuity of Soviet policy for in the last analysis Stalin is no more the friend of democracy than is Hitler and his ultimate aim is that neither side win.