890D.01/6–145

The Acting Secretary of State to the Soviet Chargé (Novikov)

Sir: I acknowledge receipt of your note of June 1, 1945 expressing the concern of the Soviet Government in regard to the unfortunate situation which has developed in Syria and Lebanon.

The United States Government is pleased to note that the position taken by the Soviet Government in regard to this matter is similar to that taken by the United States Government.

The United States Government shares the concern of the Soviet Government regarding the regrettable incidents involving bloodshed which took place. As the Soviet Government is aware from the communications which Ambassador Harriman addressed to the appropriate Soviet authorities, the United States Government promptly made its position clear and took steps to bring about a solution of this open conflict. The United States Government will not relax in its efforts to assist the countries concerned in reaching a just and amicable settlement of this matter.

Accept [etc.]

Joseph C. Grew