740.00119 Control (Germany)/4–2545: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Ambassador in France (Caffery)
1740. Re Embs 2110, April 25, 9 p.m. The Joint Chiefs of Staff have proposed that initially this Government offer to release Baden to the French zone of occupation. They see no overriding military objectives [objections?], however, to giving to the French, with adequate safeguards of transit rights, Wurttemberg and Sigmaringen.
The Department wishes you informally to sound out the French immediately on whether Baden would suffice. If, as appears probable, the French Government would not be satisfied with Baden alone, you may indicate that Winant will be authorized to discuss with Massigli the inclusion of Wiirttemberg and Sigmaringen in the French zone. Please inform Winant immediately (repeating to Department) of the result of your inquiry so that the negotiations in the EAC on the French zone may be concluded as soon as possible.