740.00119 E.W. 1939/9–644: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Secretary of State
[Received 8:07 p.m.]
3343. ReDepts 2139, September 5, 10 p.m. After a long discussion with the Russians and the British Ambassador this afternoon we came to an agreement on virtually all points except the question of reparation to the Soviet Union. Molotov repeating his arguments of yesterday stated categorically that the Soviet Government would insist upon the inclusion of the fixed sum of reparations to be paid to the Soviet Union. As the British Ambassador’s instructions were not sufficiently flexible to concur, he is cabling tonight for further instructions. The meeting with the Rumanians is therefore postponed until tomorrow.
Molotov agreed to dealing with Transylvania either in the armistice or in a separate declaration. This issue thus becomes one between us and the British. The British Ambassador has agreed to cable London presenting our viewpoint.
I explained to Molotov that we would expect to have a political representative in Rumania. Molotov seemed surprised and inquired whether it was proposed that this representative be accredited to the Rumanian Government or to the Control Commission. He indicated that it was not intended to establish diplomatic relations with Rumania at this time and implied that any political relations with the Rumanian Government should be through the machinery of the Control Commission. Molotov said that he wanted it understood that the Control Commission in Rumania would operate in the same way as the Control Commission in Italy.
It seems clear that the Soviet Government intends to keep a tight rein on Rumanian affairs during the period of military operations. I feel it highly important that I state to the Soviet Government prior to the signing of the armistice more precisely what position and activities we expect our political representatives to have. It would be helpful, therefore, if I might have tonight clarification and guidance on this point.
In this connection Clark Kerr raised the question of other Governments of the United Nations not on the Control Commission having political representatives in Rumania. Molotov indicated that he [Page 224] would not object to consular representation but would oppose at this time their sending political representatives to Rumania.