Department of Defense Files: Telegram
The Chief of the United States Military Representation on the Allied Control Commission for Rumania (Schuyler) to the War Department
M–1468. In a conference last evening requested by Savel Radulescu and Ionitiu, advisors to the King, at which Mister Melbourne was also present, Radulescu asked whether, in case of need, United States agencies in Rumania could grant asylum to the King. I replied that in the event of an emergency in which the King might be threatened with physical harm, I was authorized to grant temporary asylum, but only until the case would be laid before the Allied Control Commission and decision reached by that agency as to further action. I pointed out that I would be bound by any such decision.
Radulescu next asked whether, if rioting occurred in or near the palace, the US Mission would send observers. I answered that in such case, as in the case of any other disturbance any place in the country, would if at all practicable detail members of this representation to observe and report upon the facts to the US Government.
Radulescu then asked what would be our action if the Russians should denounce the Armistice and actually assume full military control of the country. I replied that the Armistice has been agreed upon and signed by all three major powers, that there was not a shred of evidence to indicate that any one of such powers intended to violate or abrogate it by unilateral action, and that any such hypothesis did not warrant further discussion.
Mister Melbourne concurred in each of my replies.
In another brief meeting this morning, I reminded Mister Radulescu that the King had officially appealed to the Allied Control Commission on the basis of the Yalta Declaration, appeal was now in the hands of our three governments, and that I myself, as a member of the Commission, had no authority to advise the King or otherwise attempt to influence his further actions in the case. I indicated that in order to assist me in making clear and accurate reports to my Government, [Page 593] I would appreciate receiving first hand information on all important developments and political trends at this crucial time, but I suggested that if Radulescu wished to discuss political implications or possible results of proposed courses of action, he address himself to Mister Melbourne rather than to myself.