203. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Italy 0
2723. Paris pass CINCEUR, West and Thurston. State-Defense message. FYI. Following is portion McElroy-Taviani conversation Paris December 19:1
“Defense Minister Taviani: About a year ago Communists stated that there were atomic weapons in Italy. Since Government never made a denial it has been generally understood that atomic weapons have been in Italy for over a year. I believe that type of answer should satisfy Italian people. Since atomic weapons have been in Italy for over a year and nothing has happened, public has no reason to be concerned now. It is safe to have them.
However, if Italian Defense Minister puts out a public statement that there are atomic weapons in Italy, that there have been atomic weapons in Italy over a year, American press will no doubt report this and ask Secretary of Defense for confirmation: my problem is that if I make such a statement, I don’t want U.S. to deny it. My precise question is: May I state that atomic weapons have been in Italy for over a year?
Secretary McElroy: I see no reason not to but I will check with the Secretary of State upon my return to U.S. It will be you who will make the statement, we will say nothing but only be prepared to confirm.” End FYI.
Unless Embassy perceives objection Taviani should be informed, with respect this conversation, as follows:
[Page 432]From U.S. point of view it would be preferable if Defense Minister Taviani continued to find it unnecessary to make a statement on this subject; however, this determination can of course only be made by Italian Government and U.S. would fully understand reasons which might make it desirable for Italian Govt to make such statement.
If Defense Minister issues statement on this subject which in turn prompts inquiries of an American spokesman, the American official would be guided by U.S. Govt policy which is neither to confirm nor deny presence of nuclear weapons in any other country.