865.24/3–1248: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Dunn) to the Secretary of State
urgent
Niact 1062. RefDeptel 635, March 10. I explained fully to Prime Minister status of equipment. He expressed deepest gratitude to US Government for friendly and helpful manner in which we are making provision for Italy and particularly for the financial arrangement and asked me to explain that in view of the stage at which political situation and electoral campaign, in full swing here now, have developed he cannot agree to have shipment made before electoral date April 18 or arrivals in Italy occur before 15 May. He said he still wants the equipment requested and his desire not to have it shipped now is due to his judgment as to the adverse effect such shipment would have at this stage upon the electoral campaign. He said the government has seized large quantities of arms in the hands of Communists; is continually tracking down other such holdings; government has made progress in increasing the strength and equipment of internal violence with strongest possible resistance.
He said assistance must be viewed now in light of its effect on the elections. Anything helpful to victory must be undertaken and anything which would put in jeopardy such a victory must be put aside or postponed until after the election. He said the Communists are playing upon the fear of war on the part of all Italians and shipments of this equipment would be seized upon with avidity by Communists propaganda and would be detrimental to campaign he is now waging for democratic victory. It is his considered judgment that his cause would not be helped by agreeing to shipments now and if arrangements for shipping were made before April 18 tide of elections might be turned against him.
Reports coming from Washington of shipment of arms to Italy have caused government here to be put on defensive against Communist attacks and I hope therefore that every precaution will be taken to keep this discussion completely secret.1