868.00/1291: Telegram
The Ambassador to the Greek Government in Exile (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 27—6:23 p.m.]
Greek Series 93. My A–18, October 26, 5 p.m.57 In statement released yesterday afternoon for publication as background to radio broadcast last week by General Wilson (see my telegram number 90, October 23d57), British explain at length origin of formation in Greece of guerrilla bands of Colonel Zervas (EDES) and guerrilla forces (ELAS) directed by EAM, and, stating that most likely interpretation of present conflict between them is that it results from direct German incitement to each, report that EDES is continuing to resist the Germans at same time as it is countering unprovoked [Page 155] ELAS attack. While Zervas is willing to settle differences statement concludes that he feels initiative for solution should come from ELAS which so far has only responded evasively to General Wilson’s appeal repeating unfounded and obviously German inspired allegation that EDES is collaborating with enemy.