874.00/10–2446: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Representative in Bulgaria (Barnes)
349. Deptel 5412 to Paris rptd Sofia 322. For your info, in reply Brit Emb aide-mémoire Oct 9 Dept informed Brit Oct 23 that in absence effective implementation Moscow Declaration and in light recent measures taken by Bulg Govt re forthcoming elections US Govt extremely reluctant extend recognition at present. US Govt appreciates considerations prompting Brit Govt suggest recognition at time peace treaty signed but considers recognition undesirable unless situation Bulgaria is altered by developments in meantime. Despite whatever statement of technical motives for recognition might accompany recognition, such recognition would probably be exploited in certain circles as contradiction position and principles US and UK have been endeavoring uphold in Balkans. US Govt is considering various alternatives whereby peace treaty could be brought into effect without formal recognition present Bulg Govt. No final decision yet reached but as some time will elapse before agreement achieved on final treaty draft US Govt prefers postpone determination its course but will consult Brit when final draft imminent. US shares Brit opposition to withdrawal US UK Mil Missions from ACC at present.
Sent Sofia 349 rptd London 7352.