860h.01/12–2645: Telegram
The Ambassador in Yugoslavia (Patterson) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 27—7:15 a.m.]
796. Politika this morning published Tass9 announcement of American note to Yugoslav Government recognizing changes in Yugoslav constitution and proclamation of republic. British note is also published in same paper under London Tanjug10 credit line with additional brief commentary from Reuters.
First reactions in opposition circles to our note are: Former Minister, now in opposition, who read Department’s communiqué on my instructions as well as note itself said “now our people can breathe again” but indicated full effect of note would be lost if, as was to be expected, Government failed to publish my instructions in press; many other people, however, express feeling that all hope for change is lost by fact of Anglo-American recognition.
[Page 1303]We, too, would like to insist on publication of instructions as condition to presentation of letters of credence. Please advise.
Repeated Moscow 41.