858.248/10–1644: Telegram
The Minister in Sweden (Johnson) to the Secretary of State
[Received October 17—3:31 a.m.]
4212. Assumption in Department’s 2068, October 14, midnight, that Swedish authorities are hesitating to release additional airmen on account is an apparent misconception. Release of our aviators is being constantly and almost daily pressed with the Foreign Office and with other officials and there is every reason to believe that Government wishes to meet our desires fully and intends to do so. See my 3939, September 28, 7 p.m. Views of our Air Command regarding importance of immediate release of airmen have been forcibly brought to attention of the authorities and situation is understood by them. Of the 300 already released, ATC82 service has up to present taken out 77. This operation is being carried out as rapidly as feasible. I hope Department will assure General Arnold that matter is never lost sight of here for one moment and is being pressed strongly and continuously. Results up to present have not been unsatisfactory and responsible Swedish officials are actively seeking ways and means to release one entire lot. In informal conversation, it is taken for granted there will soon be none remaining here. Foreign Minister Günther reiterated to me last night, however, that his Government would not consider any “bargaining” proposition for releasing internees.
Thus far, only 155 Germans have come into Sweden but Swedish Foreign Office hopes Finns will succeed in driving a sufficient number of German soldiers into Sweden to enable Government to release all remaining Allied internees here at once.
- Air Transport Command.↩