861.2423/9–1346: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Durbrow) to the Secretary of State
[Received 12:27 p.m.]
3475. Naval Attaché reported September 13, alleged description of Soviet atomic bomb tests reported to have taken place near Chita.
We have discussed this report in detail with Naval and Military Attachés and are in general agreement that circumstances surrounding story suggest that it was inspired for foreign consumption. Furthermore, it appears to fit in context of other recent Soviet atomic rumors and intimations, none of which appear to have substance, [Page 782] vague statements by agitator at a Moscow factory last spring that USSR had produced atomic bomb, announcement at a variety show in July that first Soviet atomic bomb had been exploded, statement by Soviet observer upon return from Bikini that USSR would soon conduct tests.
This atomic gossip fits in with general pattern of Soviet display of military might most recently exemplified in ostentatious tank parade September 8.
While we are inclined to view with considerable skepticism specific atomic rumors which have come to our attention, we do not feel it would be safe to assume in general that USSR has not yet developed atomic bomb. Until there is pretty conclusive evidence one way or another, it would seem to be sound to proceed on assumption that USSR may have produced and tested or will soon produce and test atomic bombs.