840.20/1–2449: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom
us urgent
289. Pls tell Bevin and Jebb that in allocating US arms we will be guided by major strategic considerations in which Atlantic Pact membership will be most important but not only factor. (Embtel 286 Jan 24.) In case of Italy US position approved by highest civilian and mil authorities is to exert every endeavor to assist in preventing Italy from falling under domination USSR either through external armed attack or through Sov dominated Communist movements within Italy so long as Ital Govt evidences determination to oppose such Communist aggression. Under this policy we would supply arms to Italy within treaty limits whether or not Italy were party to Atlantic Pact.
Our position inclusion Italy in North Atlantic Pact has been made clear in Deptels 224 and 233.1 We understand from your 222 Jan 182 and Paris 263 Jan 21 and 314 Jan 24 there is general agreement include Italy and Scandinavia in preparatory stages prospective “Western Union” but continued disagreement between Brit and French on Council of Europe versus European Assembly. We strongly hope communiqué issued following Consultative Council meeting will make plain agreement that Italy as natural member Western European community should be included from outset in whatever arrangement (Councilor Assembly or both) may be proposed.