Editorial Note
Secretary of the Air Force W. Stuart Symington conversed with Turkish President Inonu at Ankara on August 16. His report of August 20 to Secretary Forrestal noted that “President Inonu stressed the following three factors: (1) Turkey’s conviction they are in danger from Russia; (2) Turkish desire not to bear the brunt of any such [Page 135] conflict alone, although their decision has already been made to do so if necessary; and (3) Turkey’s desire for increased sympathy from, and understanding with, the “United States.”
The report also pointed out the Turkish President’s view that “Russian aggression will remain a constant threat to Turkey; and therefore he felt he must seek assurance that American aid to revitalize the Turkish Armed Forces would continue, and not be cut off mid-way in the program.” (867.00/8–2048)