135. Telegram From the Legation in Hungary to the Department of State 1
177. Current situation completely abnormal if factual situation correctly understood. This is as follows: Soviets have Budapest under control with three Soviet mechanized divisions, although there are a few hard core resistance centers still in city proper. Soviet units at moment sitting in concentrations various key areas and blocking bridges. Appear in defensive posture. Still, Soviet troops estimated in country present moment sufficient to put down nationalists if their policy decided upon. Major question lies in what now acts as restraining influence from exercise this option.
One guess might be evenly divided influence at moment between Soviet political thinkers who favor iron fist action and those for moderate course. If this is good guess and west reaction weak-kneed in this crisis would appear scale would tip in favor iron fist school. Legation would recommend pressure on Soviets to be heavy and in any possible form that appears compatible with Washington assessment of risks.2
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 661.64/10–2956. Secret; Niact.↩
- Barnes suggested one hour later in telegram 180 that the statements of the Nagy government concerning the withdrawal of Soviet troops needed to be weighed most carefully. The Legation further advised that the nationalists required some high-level Western assistance for their cause to survive. To enhance their bargaining position and fighting potential, they required negotiating assistance and military matériel. (Ibid., 764.00/10–2956)↩