875.01/9–1644: Telegram
Mr. Alexander C. Kirk,28 Political Adviser, Allied Force Headquarters, to the Secretary of State
[Received September 17—12:59 a.m.]
415. Kupi’s forces have commenced minor actions against Germans but British contend they come too late, can never be militarily important and that giving Kupi supplies would only increase possibilities of civil war. The American representatives on BAF policy committee could only agree to denying support to Kupi on grounds that there was as yet no evidence of sincere resistance by Kupi.
It is British opinion that as we are entering a new phase, the prevention of civil war overrides policy of aiding anyone who will fight Germans. They do not believe that Kupi and LNC can ever get together and it is now doubtful if supplies will be sent to Kupi even if he really fights. Moreover the withdrawal of all BLOs29 from Kupi is under consideration while support to LNC is thought necessary until Germans surrender.
In this transition phase it appears quite probable that policy of supporting only one faction in Albania will greatly influence the country’s political future. Can we maintain our disinterested position as outlined in Department’s 391, July 20 and still be a party to Allied decisions, based on preventing civil war by aiding only one side? The Department’s views will be appreciated.