740.00119 EW/12–946
The Estonian Acting Consul General (Kaiv) to the Secretary of State76
Sir: I understand that the discussions about the peace treaty with Germany are about to begin.
In this connection I have the honor to bring to your attention the following:
Estonia has severely suffered under the German occupation, and the Estonian Government retains her claims against Germany for compensation. At the same time Estonia is vitally interested in maintaining her ways of communication with Western Europe.
Estonia is at present under occupation by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in violation of the general rules of International Law as well as in violation of bilateral treaties concluded between Estonia and the U.S.S.R.
The Government of the U.S.S.R. has repeatedly tried to represent Estonia at international conferences without having any legal basis.
In view of the above I have to emphasize, Sir, that in the prospective conferences about the peace treaty with Germany the Government of the Soviet Union cannot represent in any way Estonian interests. Such an authority and duty rests with the legal representatives of the Government of the independent and sovereign Republic of Estonia.
In my capacity as senior representative of the Government of Estonia in this Hemisphere I am ready, if it is considered desirable by the future conferences, to submit available information and to appear on behalf of the Estonian Government before these conferences for protection of the rights of Estonia.
Accept [etc.]
- The Acting Secretary of State acknowledged this note on December 13, 1946.↩