Foreign Relations of the United States, 1948, Eastern Europe; The Soviet Union, Volume IV

124.616/4–1248: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Smith) to the Secretary of State

restricted

Moscow, April 12, 1948—5 p. m.

667. Have received letter dated April 10 signed Vyshinski in reply my note March 20 to Molotov (Embassy’s despatch 281, March 22¹) stating:

1. Soviet Govt cannot discuss size Embassy official staff as this falls within competence US Government.

2. Matter additional premises has been referred Burobin² which “will doubtless give necessary attention”.

3. Customs questions now under study and Embassy will be informed decisions.

Regard this as essentially negative response, especially on premises, though there may be some accommodation on customs applicable to British Embassy as well as us. Shall explore with Burobin and endeavor expedite definitive reply.

Smith

1. Not printed; but see telegram 499 from Moscow on March 18, p. 823, footnote 2.
2. Central Bureau for Services to Foreigners in Moscow.