601.4161/4–1450: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Kirk) to the Secretary of State 1
1130. Since revaluation ruble, Embassy has given careful consideration to desirability reduction its operations long [along?] lines apparently now decided upon by British (London’s telegram 1954 April 122).
We are, of course, fully conscious importance all possible economies and appreciate effect magnitude increase operating costs at present level on Department’s budget. However, in the light of all factors involved and particularly the crucial nature of our current relationships with the USSR, it is our firm conviction that curtailment of this Embassy’s operations, which incidentally would be welcomed by the Soviets, would be detrimental to US national interests out of all proportion to the monetary value of the additional cost which continuance will entail. At the outside we estimate increased expenditures will amount to $1,000,000 additional, a sum which, though large in itself, cannot be considered of such importance as to affect policy considerations under world conditions as they now exist.
In our view same reasoning should militate against British decision and, aside from fact that reduction British Embassy here which is now roughly equivalent ours might conceivably have repercussions in nature increased efforts reduce size US Embassy, I suggest, if Department concurs, Embassy London might desire inform Foreign Office foregoing views and indicate we think British position ill-advised. Also note implementation British decision likely leave deplorable effect joint US–UK operations here, particularly JPRS.