740.0011 European War 1939/8711: Telegram

The Ambassador in Turkey (MacMurray) to the Secretary of State

49. For Secretary and Under Secretary. Pending receipt of expected more comprehensive information I have reason to believe Eden and Dill convinced themselves it would in their own interest be disadvantageous to have Turkey participate in war under present circumstances and that they reached altogether frank and friendly understanding with Turks that they should not declare war even in event of German invasion of Greece but unless attacked should hold aloof for present although making preparations (along lines not yet fully worked out) for eventual participation. See third paragraph my 41.26

MacMurray
  1. Dated February 25, 10 a.m., p. 825.