711.61/4–2648: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the Soviet Union 1
us urgent
478. Eyes only for the Ambassador. We approve your suggestion that the approach should be made by you to Molotov just prior to your departure for leave and should be in the form of an oral statement rather than a formal written document. However, we feel you should tell Molotov that you are acting under the instructions of your Government.
There is given below the outline of the type of statement we feel, after taking your suggestions into full consideration (urtel 774, April 26), you should make to Molotov regarding the position of the United States.
We did not have in mind the probability of some Russian counter move in Europe proper since we agree with you that the present indications are that, with the exception of a possible miscalculation in Berlin or Vienna, the Kremlin does not intend to mount any action in Europe proper which would carry the risk of actual hostilities. We have had more in mind the danger that a miscalculation of our determination and intentions might lead them to unwise action in Greece or Iran. The Far East being a much more unclear situation is not regarded as a point of immediate danger where Communist action could set off general hostilities.
The purpose we are seeking in this statement is the twofold objectives outlined in our 4592; to convince the Kremlin of the determination of the US Government and people of the US to continue its policy of support for the independence and integrity of the free nations of the world, if possible, and at the same time to make it clear that this [Page 841] country entertains no aggressive designs against the Soviet Union or any other country.
We also approve your suggestion of using as a point of departure your conversation of two years ago with Stalin.
[At this place in this telegram there is omitted the outline of the type of statement furnished by the Department to Ambassador Smith for guidance in preparing his remarks to Molotov. His statement is contained in telegram 836 from Moscow on May 4, page 847. Although there are some verbal differences, the Ambassador’s presentation was a faithful fulfillment of the outline statement sent to him.]