840.50 UNRRA/11–245: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh)
1136. Dept urgently wishes your comments on UNRRA series three connected telegrams dispatched Oct 2899 through Brit Emb to Washington and London. Assume you have seen these but if not please request copies.
Your regular reports on deteriorating political and economic situation, now forcefully corroborated by UNRRA messages under reference, [Page 253] have made Dept increasingly apprehensive possible breakdown Greek Govt machinery. Dept deeply concerned of late at unwillingness or inability Greek leaders to work together for urgent needs their country. Impression gaining ground abroad that selfishness and cupidity of Greek public figures are blinding them to all broader issues and that perhaps Greece incapable of running herself and solving immediate economic problems. Under these circumstances may be impossible obtain additional funds for UNRRA’s work in Greece. In such event there is no other machinery for further support from outside. At least no US assistance possible by any other method. Although US prepared give sympathetic consideration Greek request for loans these must be made on sound economic basis. Little likelihood credits being made available to country offering as little financial and economic stability as Greece at this time.
Essential Greek leaders be made aware of these facts and would like your views as to how best accomplish this purpose. Gravity situation such that Dept giving serious consideration to UNRRA’s suggestions in reference telegrams and to idea of strong action to help Greece save herself and avert financial and economic chaos.