Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955–1957, Eastern Europe, Volume XXV

113. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the United Kingdom¹

Washington, October 25, 1956—7:29 p.m.

2981. You are requested to consult immediately with Foreign Office with respect to its attitude as signatory Hungarian Peace Treaty to circulation of letter among members Security Council or introduction of item and resolution on situation produced in Hungary by action of military forces of Soviet Union against Hungarian people. It would be particularly important to know if Foreign Office favors either action and whether it would associate itself with either of the proposed actions.

Proposed letter would be addressed to President of Security Council² and in general invite attention to situation created in Hungary by employment Soviet forces against Hungarian people to repress demands to enjoy human rights and freedoms affirmed in Charter and secured by Peace Treaty; would urge Council members to keep situation under review to determine whether it is liable endanger peace and security; and if so what constructive steps Council might take.

Should sentiment favor resolution rather than letter, it might be based on above and further provide for establishment of Committee to determine facts and to report results of findings to Council. Draft resolution would, of course, be discussed with appropriate representatives in UN.

For Belgrade only: Left to your discretion whether and how to approach Yugoslav Government. (See Deptel 313.)³ It is recognized Yugoslav Government, in view of its special relationship and particularly in likelihood that issues of this kind may be subject of current discussions between them and Soviets, might find it awkward to join us. On other hand, we feel it might be unwise for us to take initiative to exclude them a priori if to exclude them should result in prejudging their position for them. If on balance you decide to raise subject with Yugoslavs, you are authorized to express our appreciation delicacy this matter.

For Paris only: Although France not signatory, its reaction also desired and believe should be invited participate in this action.

Dulles

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 764.00/10–2556. Confidential; Priority. Sent also to Canberra, New Delhi, Pretoria, Wellington, Ottawa, Belgrade, and Paris; repeated to USUN. Drafted by Walmsley and approved by Dulles.
2. Bernard Cornut-Gentille.
3. Telegram 313 to Belgrade, October 25, requested the Embassy to make known to Yugoslav Foreign Minister Koća Popović or Tito that the United States considered the Soviet use of force in Hungary as the most tragic evidence so far of the extent of Soviet colonialism in Europe. In order to minimize bloodshed and encourage Hungarian authorities to proceed toward democratization, the United States hoped to encourage Yugoslavia to use its influence with the Soviets to advance these ends. (Department of State, Central Files, 764.00/10–2556)