36. Telegram From the Embassy in the Soviet Union to the Department of State1
589. Reference Deptelegram 343.2 Although in August 27 Pravda comment on forthcoming Austro trade talks, Soviets expressed satisfaction with current implementation by Vienna of Austrian neutrality policy, it will be recalled that Soviet press published number of articles during this spring criticizing Austria’s interpretation of that policy and its position on Hungarian question, particularly refugees. While we are inclined to doubt Soviet Government in any event prepared grant significant reduction in Austrian compensation shipments to USSR, latter is not likely seek major Austrian quid pro quo since this would both negate desired political effect and run into opposition of Austrians who, after all, are presumably not desperately in need of Soviet reduction.
Soviet asking points, in addition to urging general increase of Austrian-Soviet bloc trade, might involve attempt persuade Austrians (1) to recognize existence two Germanies and establish relations with East German regime, though we hardly believe Soviets will insist upon this; (2) to assume full membership in Soviet-dominated Danube Commission; (3) to adopt more “reasonable” attitude toward [Page 55] Hungarian question and Kadar regime, including problem of refugees; (4) to support publicly Soviet position on banning weapons mass destruction and further nuclear tests; (5) to avoid membership in or close relationship with such “aggressive components of NATO” as Coal-Steel Community, European Common Market and Free Trade Area, and EURATOM; and (6) to so formulate Austria’s position on international issues that truer expression of “Austrian neutrality” will obtain than in past. Conceivable Soviets might also seek agreement to revive use Vienna as headquarters for worldwide Commie front organizations.