110.11 DU/8–2154: Telegram
No. 241
The Secretary
of State to the Embassy in
Yugoslavia1
173. Eyes only Riddleberger from Secretary. I have been turning over in my mind possibility some time in next few months of spending one or two days in Belgrade which is one of few European capitals outside Iron Curtain I have not visited since assuming office. Given sensitivity of Yugoslav leaders in matters involving their prestige and their country’s position in Western world since break with Stalin, it has seemed to me that despite the personal inconvenience and criticism which it might arouse in certain circles in this country, such a visit might produce results of longstanding benefit. On the assumption that Trieste negotiations are successfully concluded in meantime, my present thought is that visit to Belgrade and perhaps one or two other capitals might conveniently be arranged for some time in December when I would normally plan to go to Europe for meeting of North Atlantic Council. Rome could be included in itinerary if that is considered essential.
My purpose in raising matter with you at this time is to inquire whether you think any advantage could be gained in connection with Trieste negotiations themselves—and more particularly in influencing Yugoslavs to make further territorial concession—by sounding out Yugoslav leaders now.
I recognize that approach would have to be handled with great care. On one hand it would have to be clear that visit would be impossible at least in near future in absence of Trieste settlement. On other hand we should avoid having Yugoslavs draw conclusion, which they would resent, that proposal being made for purpose of exerting indirect pressure on negotiations. Furthermore I think it essential that approach not be in such terms as would enable Yugoslavs to publicize projected visit before Trieste settlement since this would cause great resentment in Italy.
[Page 503]I would appreciate your views on above suggestion and if you think well of it on best means of carrying it out.
- Drafted by Bonbright and cleared with Hooker, Crawford, and Tyler. Also sent to London eyes only for Thompson, and repeated for information to Rome eyes only for Durbrow. A handwritten note by Merchant on the source text reads: “Approved textually by the Secy. LTM”↩