859B.20/7–2247: Telegram
The Ambassador in Denmark (Marvel) to the Secretary of State
494. Last evening Kauffmann had confidential talk with me at residence. He stated that his recommendation for a policy of “going slow” regarding Greenland had been accepted by Danish Government thus confirming views of Rasmussen expressed my Top Secret telegram 469, July 14. Kauffmann feels that time should be taken to thoroughly acquaint Danes here and Americans in Washington as to all aspects surrounding Greenland problem. He feels that an understanding, appreciation and reconciliation of divergent views of Americans and Danes must and can be solved. While he thinks the solution may lie in US control and maintenance of Greenland airfields on ground they are necessary link to Germany and are needed for commercial air traffic he stated this would only be a temporary measure and that he was thinking for a solution along more permanent lines. He indicated that if Denmark could be assured that the Truman Doctrine1 would [Page 675] be extended so as to protect Denmark from any threatened aggression of Russia a permanent solution could be speedily reached. He felt that within six months or a year the European situation would be clarified to extent that Denmark could take a definite stand with the West. He agreed with me that Denmark was much more inclined this way than either Norway or Sweden but that until Denmark received assurance of protection from Russian aggression the present cautious policy would be pursued. He believes Greenland matter can drag on for some time and that the FonMin can answer, in generalities to effect that negotiations are proceeding, the Communists who in Kauffmann’s opinion will be the only party to press the matter in Danish Parliament.
On his return Kauffmann will seek to see Secretary but as heretofore reported primarily for home press consumption. I again emphasize importance of conference with President by Rasmussen in September and recommend he be accompanied to Conference by Kauffmann. Word from the President to effect that Truman Doctrine extends to Denmark would in my opinion go far in laying ground for permanent solution of Greenland problem.
Kauffmann departs early July 23 and, with stops Paris, London, Iceland will return US on schedule August 5.
PrimeMin has invited me to dine with him alone July 24 and perhaps he then will confirm above views of Kauffmann.
- For documentation regarding the Truman Doctrine, see vol. v, pp. 1 ff.↩