Office of the Historian

740.0011 European War 1939/26000a: Circular telegram

The Secretary of State to Diplomatic Missions Abroad

Washington, November 19, 1942—3 p.m.

It is appreciated that recent events in North Africa and the action of the former French Government at Vichy in severing diplomatic relations with the United States have created a problem for American diplomatic and consular representatives abroad from whom advice and guidance has been sought by former French officials desiring to disassociate themselves from the actions of their former Government. Some of these officials have completely severed their connections with Vichy. Some wish to offer their services to General Giraud or Admiral Darlan; others merely state that they are anxious to be of assistance in any way which may be suggested to them.

In the light of the rapidly changing situation the difficulty of laying down a clear-cut policy for the guidance of American representatives will be recognized. Nevertheless, certain general observations are possible and may prove helpful.

(1)
As some offices have already been informed, this Government has taken the position that in view of the full occupation of metropolitan [Page 204] France by Germany, it cannot regard as a sovereign independent government any regime which Hitler may permit to function in that area.
(2)
Careful attention is invited to the President’s statement, quoted in full in Radio Bulletin No. 272 of November 17,96 which clearly points out that the political arrangements arrived at in northern and western Africa are of a temporary nature and are based on military expediency. It should be noted in particular that the arrangements made with Admiral Darlan “apply without exception to the current local situation only”.
(3)
The requests of any individuals who wish to offer their services in a military capacity to elements cooperating with the U. S. may be forwarded to the Department which will see that they reach the appropriate authorities in North Africa when possible and will transmit any reply which may be received.
(4)
The Department should be informed of any offers of service in a civilian capacity, but the inquirer should be advised of the military nature of the present arrangements and informed that non-military questions will of necessity have to wait until the situation becomes stabilized.

Repeat to consular officers under your jurisdiction.

Hull
  1. See Department of State Bulletin, November 21, 1942, p. 935.↩