859B.20/7–1447: Telegram
The Ambassador in Denmark (Marvel) to the Secretary of State
469. Kauffmann informed me July 11 he was to confer later that afternoon with FonMin regarding Greenland. As he was away over week end I have not seen him since conversation. However, FonMin had lunch with me en famille yesterday and took the opportunity to express informally his views on a variety of subjects. He feels most strongly in light of recent developments in Europe that Denmark should not now press for settlement of Greenland problem. While Kauffmann will go through motion in calling on the Secretary on his return, such action will be primarily for home consumption and with no thought of pressing matter. Rasmussen feels situation can remain dormant for six months or a year.
Rasmussen departs about September 10 so as to arrive US September 16 to attend UN General Assembly. His decision to be present is based on fact both Norwegian and Swedish FonMin will also be there. He will be in US approximately three weeks. Believe it most advisable [Page 674] particularly for local reaction that Rasmussen not only see the Secretary but also the President. This view was expressed by former Secretary Byrnes in Paris Embtel 4528, September 10, 1946, repeated Copenhagen as 28.1
Rasmussen confirmed Kauffmann’s statement by Top Secret telegram 425, June 26 that there was no possibility of sale of Greenland. He expressed view that perhaps the solution lay in US control and maintenance of Greenland air fields on basis they are necessary link to communications in Germany and are needed for commercial air traffic (see my TopSectel 405, June 19). While such an arrangement would prompt some Russian reaction he admitted that Russians had only once discussed Greenland situation with him. At the time press carried story of proposed sale of Greenland, Russian Minister called on Rasmussen and requested information whether such sale was contemplated. Rasmussen answered inquiry referring to his press statement to effect that such proposal was absurd.
Emphasize local importance of arranging interview with President for Rasmussen and request Department advise of its concurrence therein.
- Not printed.↩