861.24591/3–846: Telegram
The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kennan) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 8—11:46 a.m.]
717. Press March 8 reports Qavam was seen off Mar 7 by Molotov and others and upon departing expressed “complete confidence that in very near future all misunderstandings will be resolved.” Sov-Iranian communiqué referred to his series of conversations with Stalin and Molotov and concluded “In negotiations held during these conversations and conducted in atmosphere of friendship questions were discussed of interest to both parties. Both Govts will exert all efforts so that with appointment of new Sov Amb to Iran favorable conditions will be created for further strengthening of friendly relations between both countries.”9
Sent Dept 717; repeated Tehran 49 and Frankfurt.
- In telegram 742, March 9, 9 p.m., from Moscow, the Chargé stated: “For your interest to note that Soviet authorities have not as yet seen fit to apprise their public in any way of nature and seriousness of situation which has currently arisen with respect to Iran. Laconic announcement published March 2 on retention of Soviet troops in certain areas of Iran ‘pending clarification of situation’ made no reference whatsoever to any international agreement in light of which this date was significant. Thus average Soviet citizen is utterly unaware of political crisis created by this action on part of his Government. Fact that British evacuated all their troops by March 2 was, of course, not reported. Nor have any of diplomatic exchanges on this subject been mentioned by Soviet press or radio.” (861.24591/3–946)↩