Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1944, Europe, Volume IV

711.71114A/9–444: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State

Moscow, September 4, 1944—midnight
[Received September 4—11:59 p.m.]

3298. ReDeptel 2081, August 30.⁵² On August 20, pursuant to instructions received by General Deane⁵³ I addressed a letter to Molotov⁵⁴ in which I submitted definite proposals regarding:

1. The working out of advanced plans for the prompt return of American or Soviet prisoners of war;

2. Exchange of intelligence regarding the location of prisoner of war camps in hostile territory;

3. Sending of American or Soviet officers to such camps which come under control of our respective armies, and

4. The reporting by names of individuals or small groups claiming Soviet or American nationality who may be apprehended by or surrender to our respective military authorities in order that the claims may be investigated and arrangements made for their prompt evacuation.

My letter also requested Soviet assistance in connection with the planned evacuation to Istanbul of American prisoners of war who have been released in Bucharest.

General Deane is also taking up this general question with the Soviet military authorities.

Harriman

52. Not printed.
53. Maj. Gen. John R. Deane, Chief of the United States Military Mission in the Soviet Union.
54. Vyacheslav Mikhailovich Molotov, People’s Commissar for Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Union.