8. Editorial Note
On September 16, Ambassador Thompson reported that, according to the Vienna press, the Soviet Union, in response to an Austrian request, had decided to grant Austria arms and ammunition. (Telegram 808; Department of State, Central Files, 763.56/9–1655) Later the same day, Ambassador Thompson reported that Austrian officials, surprised at the announcement, believed that the request which Moscow referred to was a statement by Chancellor Raab in which he indicated that Austria would accept arms from any source. It was further believed that Chancellor Raab had worked out the offer with the Soviet Ambassador. Although Austrian officials were uninformed of the details, Ambassador Thompson noted that they did not expect any conditions to be attached by Moscow. Some Austrians favored the acceptance of arms from the Soviet Union to illustrate Austria’s absolute neutrality. (Telegram 822; ibid., 763.56/9–1655)