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DOCUMENTS ON
GERMAN FOREIGN POLICY

1918-1945



LONDON: HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE

1956



This series is also published in Hie United Stales of America
at the Government Priming Offlce, Washington



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Printed in Great Britain wider the authority of En Majesty's Stalionenj Office by
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BOARD OF EDITORS'

United States: Paul R. Sweet, Editor-in-Chief: Howard M. Smyth;
James Stuart Beddie ; Arthur G. Kogan ; George Kent.

Great Britain: The Hon. Margaret Lambert, Editor-in-Chief:
K. H. M. Duke; M. H. Fisher; K. Ronau; F. G. Stambrook.

France: Maurice Baumont, Editor-in-Chief; Georges Bonnin; Andre
Scherer; Jacques Grunewald.



1 This list shows the composition of the Board of Editors at the time of the final
editorial work on this volume. Former editors, with their terms of service, were :
United States: Raymond James Sontag, Editor-in-Chief, September 1946-July 1949-
Bemadotte E. Schmitt, Editor-in-Chief, July 1949-July 1952; Fredrick Aandahl'
January 1 95 1-September 1953; E. Malcolm Carrol!, October 1946-August 1949-
Jean Brownell Dulaney, December 1946-April 1951; Fritz Epstein, October 1946^
July 1948; Anna Maria Herbert, April 1951- August 1952 ; John Huizenga, January
1947-September 1952; Otto Pflaroe, January 1948-August 1949; Joachim Remak
December 1947-July 1951; Norman Rich, August 1949-August 1954.
Gkeat Britain: John W. Wheeler Bennett, Editor-in-Chief, September 1946-May 1948,
thereafter Historical Adviser; James Joll, Editor-in-Chief, June-December 1948;
General Sir James Marshall-Cornwall, Editor-in-Chief, June 1948-January 1951;
E. K. Bramsted, January 1948-February 1952; L. Branney, September 1946-^
July, 1948; P. Ericsson, January 1948-May 1952; W. H. C. Frend, March 1947-
October 1951; D. C. Watt, October 1951-October 1954; T. F. D. Williams, Septem-
ber 1947-September 1949

France: Jean Estienne, July 1947-ApriI 1950; Leon de Groer, July 1947-October 1950.

Ill



ir&xrt



DOCUMENTS ON

GERMAN FOREIGN POLICY

1918-1945



Series D (1937-1945)



Volume VI

THE LAST MONTHS OF PEACE

March-August 1939



CONTENTS

Page

Pbeface Ix

Analytical List or Documents xin

Documents 1

Addendum 1103

Appendices :

I. Italo-German Staff Talks 1107

II. Organization of the German Foreign Ministry 1128

III. List of German Files Used 1132

IV. List of Persons 1141

V. Glossary of German Terms and Abbreviations .... 1146

VII



PREFACE^



In June 1946 the British Foreign Office and United States Department
of State agreed to publish jointly documents from captured archives
of the German Foreign Ministry and the Reich Chancellery. Although
the captured archives go back to the year 1867, it was decided to limit
the present publication to papers relating to the years after 1918, since
the object of the publication was "to establish the record of German
foreign policy preceding and during World War II." The editorial
work was to be performed "on the basis of the highest scholarly objecti-
vity." The editors were to have complete independence in the selection
and editing of the documents. Publication was to begin and be con-
cluded as soon as possible. Each Government was "free to publish
separately any portion of the documents." In April 1947 the French
Government, having requested the right to participate in the project,
, accepted the terms of this agreement.

In accordance with the understandings on the basis of which the
project was originally undertaken, the editors have had complete
freedom in the selection and editing of the documents published in this
volume. They were selected jointly by the American, British and
French editors. For the footnotes and other editorial matter the British
editor has entire responsibility. The translations were prepared by
the British translation staff. The British editor wishes to record her
gratitude to Mr. E, J. Passant, Director of Research and Librarian at
the Foreign Office, the Deputy Librarian, Mr. C. H. Fone, and Miss
A. C. Johnston, for their co-operation and to Miss E. C. M. Breuning,
Mr. T. H. Frame, Miss V. Klein, Mr. G. K. Meister, Mr. D. A. R. H.
Webster and Miss F. H. Yorke for their assistance in the preparation of
the volume.

II

The documents published in this the sixth volume of Series D cover the
period from March 16, 1939, the day following the German occupation
of Prague, to August 8, 1939, the eve of the resumption of direct German-
Polish exchanges, which brought to an end the German policy adopted
the previous spring of maintaining "complete reserve" in relations with



1 In each of the first four volumes published in the series there appears a General
Introduction, The editors have not felt it necessary to repeat this introduction, in the
present and succeeding volumes. Interested readers may wish to refer to it for informa-
tion, on the nature of the German Foreign Ministry archives on which the publication is
based, their present condition, and some of the principles which have guided the editors
in their work.

IX



PREFACE



Poland, and which was to herald a new, acute phase in the European
crisis. Because so many of the main strands of German policy are
intertwined in this brief but crowded period of less than five months
the editors have thought it preferable to present the documents in
strictly chronological order rather than to follow their previous practice
of arranging them by topics. A topical arrangement of the analytical
list at the beginning of the volume is designed to ease the problem of
those who wish to read on selected topics. The present volume thus
forms the sequel to Volumes III, IV and V in Series D >

The main theme of the present volume is provided by the effects on
the European situation of the German occupation of Prague on March
15, 1939. Within a few days of this action, Ribbentrop endeavoured
to induce Poland to accept German incorporation of Danzig and "a
corridor through the Corridor" in return for a German guarantee. The
lull German record of this offer is here printed for the first time The
occupation of Prague produced a sharp reversal in British and French
policy as mamfested in the guarantee to Poland, which was extended
after the Italian occupation of Albania and reports of a German ulti-
matum to Rumania, to include Greece and Rumania also. Britain and
i! ranee also entered into negotiations with the Soviet Union. German
reactions to this new situation are very fully documented in the present
selection, which also includes a certain number of military documents
bearing on German foreign policy, in particular the directives issued
early in April requiring the German Armed Forces to be prepared for
an attack on Poland by September 1 .

German relations with Italy during this period include the con-
solidation of the Axis into a military alliance; Italo-German Staff
lalfes for concerting a common military policy are documented in
Appendix I. In spite of this relationship, Italo-German points of
friction remained, especially over such issues as supplying Italy with
German coal and anti-aircraft guns, the Croat question and the question
of the German-speaking population in the South Tyrol. The documents
here printed also provide some evidence of German attempts to enlist
Italian aid in promoting a rapprochement between Germany and the
U.S.S.R. The main outlines of the negotiations directed to this end
are known from the documents previously published in Nazi-Soviet
delations. Additional documents showing the close attention with
which Germany followed the progress of the Anglo-French negotiations
in Moscow, and filling in the story of German-Soviet exchanges par-
thP ^≪ ￡?f P' eCedin f y° lu ?es. ? th th <^ topical arrangement, do not all end on ?v B ??L v ,' C vT°^t m t-u certai ≫ ai ?^t of material which relates to the period fa ^iffi, ? v "^f^f 1 ° f the German oeou P^ of Memel on March 23 m^SSTi" 7°tT ^??' l! t the documents ° n German-Spanish relations in Volume SL^SSfM?i°l≪^i 939 V The present volume likewise contains some items which ante-date March 16, 1939, notably document No. 1 , and the Editors' Notes on pp. 81-83 PREFACE XI ticularly on the economic side, are published in the present volume for the first time. Overseas, Germany's relations with the United States of America deteriorated still further after the occupation of Prague, particularly in the economic sphere as manifested by the controversy over American "countervailing duties". In the Par East, negotiations to bring Japan into a tripartite military alliance with Germany and Italy failed to overcome Japanese reservations. Further German diplomatic efforts were directed towards the traditional European neutrals and the smaller States of South Eastern Europe. German offers to conclude non-aggression pacts with the Northern States led to the signature of a pact with Denmark, but Sweden, Norway and Finland declined. With the Baltic States'non- aggression treaties were signed with Estonia and Latvia, thus com- pleting the treaty system begun by the German Lithuanian Treaty signed on the occasion of the German incorporation of Memel. In South East Europe German economic power, especially the pros- pect of the supply of war materials, was used with a view to drawing Yugoslavia, Rumania and Bulgaria into the Axis orbit and a number of documents deal with this politico-economic policy. Hungary, whose disputes with Rumania and attitude to Poland provoked German displeasure, proposed to cooperate in planning for war economy with the Axis Powers. With Turkey, Germany proved unable to prevent the Anglo-Turkish and Franco -Turkish Declarations, nor could she afford entirely to dispense with the supply of Turkish raw materials in order to reinforce diplomatic action with economic pressure. The present volume also documents German policy towards the various attempts made during this period of mounting tension in Europe to bring about a peaceful settlement of the various issues involved. These attempts include President Roosevelt's peace appeal proposals for a conference made by the Pope, the exchange of letters between Bonnet and Ribbentrop, the Wohlthat talks in London, and Mussolini's ideas for postponing the outbreak of war. The volume closes with the Polish-Danzig Customs Inspectors' dispute assuming increasingly menacing proportions. Volume VII will take the story down through the last weeks of peace to September 3, 1939. Ill The documentation for the period covered by this Volume is not complete (see General Introduction, Section IV). The post- 1936 Economic Policy Department collection (see Volumes I and II of this Series Appendix I, item 97) contains no files on Russia and none on the Far East for the period 1936-1942. The economic files of the Embassy in Moscow are also missing, but it has been possible to trace German- Russian economic relations from documents contained in the personal XI1 PKJEFACE files of Wiehl and Clodius and in the special State Secretary file dealing with the economic negotiations connected with the German-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact. The documentation of German-Japanese economic relations in the files of the State Secretary and of Clodius for this period is only fragmentary. In particular, nothing has been found on the negotiations leading ap to the initialling of the German -Japanese economic agreement oh July 28, 1939. Readers should bear in mind that these documents are presented as a source book for the study of history and not as a finished interpreta- tion of history. It has been the aim throughout to keep any interpre- tative comment out of the footnotes, and to use them exclusively for the factual elucidation of the text or, on occasion, to draw attention to other publications of documents which contain relevant material No reference has been made in footnotes to the altered versions of numerous documents, here produced in their original form, which were published in the German White Book, Dokumente zur 'vorges- chtchte des Krieges, Auswartiges Amt 1939, No. 2 (Berlin 1939). An appendix to be published in Volume VII will give either volume and document numbers (in cases where the original has been reproduced in Volumes VI and VII of this Series) or the film serial and frame numbers of all documents published in the German White Book, falling within the period March 15 to September 3, 1939, of which the editors have been able to trace the originals in the Foreign Ministry Archives. All the microfilms of documents falling within the period covered by Volumes I to VIII of this Series will be made available to the public simultaneously with the publication of Volume VII. ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS 1 AXBAiOA Date 1939 Apr, 6 Apr. 6 Apr. Subject The Ministry in Albania to the Foreign Ministry Reports has been informed by Albanian M.F.A, that Italians have requested immediate reply to their proposals for closer alliance between Italy and Albania. Albania has gone to utmost limits of what was tolerable for her inde- pendence; she would offer armed resistance to an Italian invasion. The State Secretary to the Legation in Albania ■ S A?J eS * hat Germar, y agrees to take over Italian interests in Albania on Italian request; instructions to do nothing which might cast doubts upon German approval of Italian action. Circular of the State Secretary States that Italian action in Albania has Germany's com- plete approval; no difficulties are expected from Yugoslavia. [See also under Italy,] Doc. Ho. 164 166 172 Page 200 203 209 Baltic States Date 1939 Mar. 22 Apr. 14 Apr. 15 Apr. 17 Subject Editors 1 Note The German occupation, of Memel on March 23, 1939. Circular of the State Secretary Refers to receipt of confidential information that both Britain and U.S.S.R. have offered guarantees to Estonia and requests information on possible similar offers to other Baltic States. The Charge d' Affaires in Estonia to the Foreign Ministry Reports categorical assurance given by Deputy MFA that Estonia has received no offer of British guarantee. The Minister in Latvia to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 213 (see under Europe: General) and reports on preliminary Latvian reply to German questions on Roosevelt message. 196 202 214 Page 80 238 246 265 1 The documents in this volume have been arranged chronologically. For the con- venience of readers who w,sh to trace topics through the volume this analytical list of document has been arranged alphabetically by countries or, as in the case of the Baltic and Northern States where policies are closely inter-related, groups of countries Documents which deal with a number of different countries have been included under the heading Europe: General". In addition one subject heading, "Military Directives and Conferences ", has been included. J ? XIII XIV ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject I Dae. No. 1939 Apr. IS Apr. 19 Apr, 24 Apr. 25 Apr. 29 Apr. 29 May 1 May- May 4 Mav Mav Page Memorandum by the State Secretary 228 283 Records telephone conversation with German Minister in Riga, whom he informed that the German Government -were unable to understand Latvian M.F.A.'s reply to German question about President Roosevelt's message. The Minister in Latvia to the Foreign Ministry 230 286 Refers to document No. 214, and transmits reply from Latvian Government. The Minister in Estonia to the Foreign Ministry 253 315 Reports conversation with Vice M.F.A. and suggests pos- sible exchange of Notes in which Estonians should confirm their policy of neutrality and of holding aloof from group- ings of Great Powers. The State Secretary to the Legation in Estonia 260 323 Refers to document No. 253, and states that it is not possible at present to make statements of the kind proposed vis-it-vis a country mentioned in the Roosevelt message. An Official of the Economic Policy Department to the Gauleiter 292 369 in Konigsberg Confirms his telephoned instructions that the Fiihrer has decreed that all present Lithuanian economic interests in the Memel territory are to be preserved. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secre- tariat 294 371 Records a conversation between Ribbentrop and the Estonian Minister who was informed that Hitler was pre- pared to consider a German-Estonian non-aggression agree- ment. The State, Secretary to the Legation in Estonia- 302 394 Explains reasons for treating the conclusion of a non- aggression pact between German;' and Estonia as a matter of urgency. Memorandum by the Head of Political Division VI 311 401 Assurances given by the Lithuanian Minister that the visit of the Lithuanian Commander-in-Chief to Warsaw in no way denotes an anti-German trend. Memorandum by the Head of Political Division VI 328 422 Records private conversation with the Lithuanian Minister, who feared dangers to Baltic States inherent in a possible distribution of guarantees to them, and showed concern over Polish policy of courting Lithuania, especially about Vilna. Memorandum by the Head of Political Divi&ioji VI 329 424 Account by the Latvian Minister of latter's conversation with Ribbentrop, who had accepted the Latvian view that the proposed pact of non-aggression should be on a basis of absolute reciprocity and should not include minorities questions. Memorandum by the State Secretary i 352 461 Conversation with Estonian Minister, who brought a list of points on the German draft for a non-aggression pact. ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XV Date 1939 May 10 May 16 May 19 May 22 May 27 June 3 June 6 June 7 June ■ 7 June 29 Subject Memorandum by the State Secretary Records statements made by Latvian Minister concerning Latvian and Estonian desire to have included, in projected non-aggression pact with Germany, a reservation with reference to the Latvian-Estonian Treaty of Alliance; Minister cited as precedent, similar reservation in Latvian- Russian Non-Aggression Pact of 1932. Memorandum by the State Secretary German proposals for amendments to German-Estonian non-aggression treaty handed to the Estonian Minister. Latter again put forward Estonian Government's reasons for desiring reservation in respect of the Estonian-Latvian Treaty. - Memorandum by the Head of Political Division VI Reviews political relations between Germany and Lithuania; sole present cause for complaint lies in the ill- treatment of the German minority; recommends this be taken up with the Lithuanian Government. Memorandum by an Official of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Account of reception by Hitler of Lithuanian M.F.A., and subsequent conversation, between latter and Ribbentrop on German-Lithuanian relations; assurances on Lithuanian policy of strict neutrality. Memorandum by an Official of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Reviews course of negotiations leading to German- Lithuanian agreements on trade relations, Memel problems, and establishment of Lithuanian free zone in Port of Memel and provisions contained in these agreements. Memorandum by the State Secretary Views expressed by Estonian Minister, who is an expert on Russia and believes Russia is only waiting for a friendly gesture from the totalitarian States, whom she mistrusts less than the democratic States. Memorandum by an Official of Political Division VI Reviews policy of neutrality pursued by Estonia and Latvia, both of whom have rejected a Soviet Note, stating that they would themselves preserve their national inde- pendence. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Personal Staff Records reception of Latvian M.F.A. by Hitler and Rib- bentrop; Hitler's views on economic foreign policy and advantages of Germany as a trading partner. Editors' Note Signature of German-Estonian and German- Latvian Non- Aggression Treaties. S3 -Qruppenf Mirer Heydrich to Foreign Minister Ribbentrop Letter, enclosing a report on the supporters of Voldemaras, who are pressing for assistance from the Reich, and expres- sing view that, whilst financial aid could be granted, no arms should be supplied. Doc. So. 359 Page 460 390 408 421 445 469 484 485 587 511 538 554 593 630 850 651 664 S12 XVI ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doc. No, Page 1939 June 30 July The State Secretary to the Legation in Latvia Instructions to ascertain whether Latvian Government have been informed by Britain or Russia of negotiations in Moscow on guarantee for Baltic States. In event of Latvia receiving such guarantee, Germany expects her to reject it. The Minister in Latvia to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 589 and reports information sup- plied by Latvian M.F.A. on Russian and British communica- tions about guarantees of the Baltic States. [See also under Europe: General and Northern States.'] 589 608 814 836 Belgium Date Subject Doc. No. Pago 1939 Mar. 31 June 1 2 June 1 2 June 27 July 21 July 21 July 22 Memorandum by the State Secretary Has been informed by Belgian Ambassador, in connection with Anglo-French conversations on assistance to Switzer- land, Holland and Belgium, that nothing new has been asked of, or received from, Brussels. Ambassador Biilow-Schwante to State Secretary Weizsdcker Believes has found a suitable person who, on account of personal relations with the King, could be employed by Germany at a critical moment. Ambassador Biilow-Schwante to State Secretary Weizsacfcer Refers to instructions to tell a leading Belgian general that Berlin has reports on contacts existing between the Belgian and French armies, and describes tho results of such action as he has been able to take. Ambassador BiMow-Schwante to State Secretary Weizsacker Letter, referring to document No. 517, and describing conversation with Belgian Minister for War, to whom he stated it was known in Berlin that Belgian General Staff had initiated talks with French General Staff. Minister emphatically denied this report. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports conversation with his Belgian colleague, who said that King of the Belgians had recently explained to President Lebrun absolute necessity for Belgium to pursue a policy of strict independence towards all sides. Minute by a Member of the Foreign Minister's Secretariat Conveys Bibbentrop's instructions that Weizsacker should make representations to Belgian Ambassador about present Belgian press campaign, and should inform him confiden- tially of the Bonnet-Ribbentrdp correspondence (documents Nos. 602 and 669 ? see under France). Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Belgian Charge d'Affaires to whom he i spoke as instructed in document No. 697. [See also under Europe: General and Netherlands.] 139 516 517 575 174 712 713 799 69* 951 697 701 953 956 ANALYTICAL LIST OP DOCUMENTS Btjlgabia XVII 1939 Mar. 17 Mar. 21 Subject Mar. 22 Apr. 13 Apr. 17 Apr. 21 May 3 May 8 May 16 May 21 Memorandum by the Director of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Has informed the Bulgarian Minister that Germany is prepared to increase the arms credit to Bulgaria by SO rail- hon RM under certain conditions. Minister expressed die- appointment that increase was not greater and mentioned possibility of supplying Bulgaria from Czech army stocks. Memorandum by the Director of the Political Department Conversation with the Bulgarian Minister, who requested information on the general situation, and pressed for increase in arms credit to Bulgaria. The Charge" d' Affaires in Turkey to the Foreign Ministry Conversation with Bulgarian Minister President, who stated he had informed Turks that Bulgaria declined to enter Balkan Pact without previous frontier revision Minister President enquired about German offers to Rumania and requested support for Bulgarian nationalist aspirations. The Minister in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 186 (see under Europe: General) and reports that King Boris has assured him that no attempt has been made to involve Bulgaria in British encirclement policy. Memorandum by the State Secretary Has been asked by Bulgarian Ministers of Commerce and Finance to see that Germany delivers equipment for two divisions to Bulgaria German- Bulgarian Secret Protocol The German Government agree that the Bulgarian Government may place orders in Germany for the delivery of war materials except aircraft to the value of 45 million RM, on same conditions as agreed in Secret Protocol of March 12, 1938. Article 6 of previous Protocol revised accordingly. Memorandum by the Director of the Political Department Conversation with the Bulgarian Minister on British and Turkish efforts to achieve agreement between Bulgaria and Rumania on the Dobruja question, and on Bulgaria's other aspirations. The Chafgi d' Affaires in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Reports account given him by Minister President of results of second visit of Deputy People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs, Potemkin. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the Bulgarian Minister about possible supply of former Czech war material to Bulgaria. The Minister in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Reports conversation with King Boris, who requested favourable consideration for Bulgaria in distribution of supplies of Czech arms and asked for some submarines. Doc. No. Page 17 63 67 17 73 75 190 213 243 320 346 392 415 232 268 303 415 456 514 547 XVIII ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject IDoc.No. Page 1939 July 5 June June June June 12 June 24 July- July July 12 The State Secretary to the Minister in Bulgaria Refers to agreement reached with Ciano during letter's recent visit to Berlin over trying to bring about rapproche- ment between Bulgaria and the Axis. Discusses best methods of pursuing this aim. Caution should be observed over Bulgaria's territorial aspirations in view of Germany's relations with Bulgaria's neighbours. State Secretary Weizsacker to Minister Richthofen Letter explaining German policy of giving active support to Bulgaria s further rapprochement to Axis Powers, and stating intention to invite Bulgarian Minister President to visit Berlin. The Minister in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Reports conversation with Bulgarian Minister President, who feared he was mistrusted by Germany. Subject of supplying Bulgaria with arms from Czech stocks also raised. The State Secretary to the Legation in Bulgaria Refers to document No. 480 and instructs Minister to raise question of Bulgaria's services in return for the political support implied in German delivery of arms. Enquiries should be made as to Bulgaria's position on accession to Anti-Comintern Pact. The Minister in Bulgaria to ike Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 500 and reports conversation with Minister President who stated that question of Bul- garia's accession to Anti-Comintern Pact had never been raised officially, but had been unofficially discouraged by Mussolini. Minister unable to give a definite reply without authority from the King. German-Bulgarian Secret Protocol German and Bulgarian Governments agree that Bulgaria may place orders in Germany for aircraft material and war material to prescribed value. Conditions of payment laid down. Bulgarian Government to supply additional raw materials in part payment, and to permit German industry to exploit certain Bulgarian mineral deposits. Memorandum by an Official of tJie Foreign Minister's Secretariat Record of conversation between Hitler and Bulgarian Minister President; Hitler's views on common lot of Germany and Bulgaria as countries deprived of their rights ; Kiosseivanov's request for accelerated arms deliveries; fears of Turkish and Rumanian intentions; proposal by Hitler for joint consultation to establish what aims Bulgaria should pursue and what assistance she would require. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister'' s Secretariat Record of conversation between Ribbentrop and the Bul- garian Minister President ; review by Ribbentrop of Hitler's foreign policy; statements by Kiosseivanov on Bulgarian policy of friendship with Germany ; promises by Ribbentrop to expedite arms deliveries and proposals for clarifying points on Bulgaria's position as discussed with Hitler. The Legation in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Conversation with King, who expressed satisfaction at out- come of Minister President's visit to Berlin, and requested favourable consideration for Bulgaria's requirements in war material. 476 640 479 480 500 508 566 617 644 645 687 698 785 847 618 656 852 904 ANALYTICAL LIST OP DOCUMENTS XIX Date Subject Doc. Mo, Page 1939 July 12 July 14 July 20 July 27 The Foreign Ministry to the Chief of the High Command of the Wehrmacht Refers to promise made by Fiihrer to Bulgarian Minister President about Bulgarian requests for war material, and asks for statement on what can be done to meet certain requests. Memorandum by the Deputy Director of the Economic Policy Department Reports conversation with King Boris on July 11, in which King reviewed in detail Bulgaria's position and aims of her foreign policy. The Minister in Bulgaria to the Foreign Ministry Reports conversation with Bulgarian Minister President, who expressed pleasure at results of his Berlin visit ; Kios- seivanov disappointed at outcome of his discussions with Yugoslavs, and disquieted by reports of Turkish military preparations on Thracian frontier. The Foreign Ministry to the Chief of the High Command of the Wehrmacht Refers to document No. 659 and recommends acceding to King of Bulgaria's request for loan of two small German submarines until those ordered by Bulgaria are ready. [See also under Europe: General.'] 659 673 689 728 908 923 944 1005 Europe : General Date Subject Doc. Mo. Page 1939 Mar. 16 Mar. 21 Mar. 24 Apr. Apr. 3 Memorandum by the Director of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Reviews repercussions of occupation of Czechia on economic discussions with Britain and France. Visit of British Ministers to Berlin cancelled. Negotiations due to conclude on March 16, and British delegation returning to Britain without visiting Berlin. Sudden departure of chief French negotiator. Circular of the State Secretary Instructions to German Missions to discover what and to which States British demarches have been made to bring about an association of "peaceful States" against further German expansion, and what replies have been given. Circular of the Slate Secretary Summarizes reports available on progress and results of British diplomatic action towards the formation of united front against Germany; concludes that final results of British action will probably prove very meagre. Editors' Note Hitler's speech at Wilhelmshaven on April 1. Circular of the State Secretary Comments on British declaration of assistance to Poland and states the attitude to be adopted towards it in con- versations. 11 11 58 83 147 67 99 183 185 XX ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doc. No. Page 1939 Apr. ■ 5 Circular of the Foreign Ministry Informs Missions of information available on British d&marche in Ankara and of Turkish reply. 160 195 Apr. 12 Circular of the Foreign Minister Instructions to make no dimarahe on the British encircle- ment policy, but to make clear, in conversations, what would be the German attitude to any further States who might participate in such a British combination. 186 22S Apr. 1 7 Circular of the Foreign Minister Instructions at onco to enquire orally of all Governments mentioned by Roosevelt in his message (document No. 200 ? see under United States) whether their countries feel menaced by Germany, and whether they have authorized Roosevelt to make his proposal. 213 264 Apr. 17 Unsigned Memorandum Reviews information available on antecedents of French and British guarantees to Greece and Rumania, and on conversations held by Rumanian M.F.A. Istanbul. 221 270 Apr. 22 Circular of the State Secretary Refers to report from London Embassy of a British pro- posal to U.S.S.R. that the latter should offer a treatv of assistance under certain terms to Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Poland and Rumania, and gives instructions on what action is to be taken with various Governments concerned. 246 305 Apr. 22 Memorandum by an Official of Political Division IX Summarizes the reactions of the various countries to the two German questions in document No. 213. 250 309 Apr. 28 Editors' Note Speech by Hitler to the Reichstag. 355 Apr. 29 Circular from the Director of the Political Department Informs Embassies in London, Paris and Moscow of report by Papen on his first conversation with Turkish M.F.A. Comments on Turkish attitude. 289 365 Apr. 30 Circular of the Foreign Ministry Transmits a review of the course and results of the British encirclement action to date, with instructions to report any additions or amendments required. 299 382 May 21 Circular of the Foreign Ministry Missions are requested to make known to official depart- ments and to the press the truth about the incident at Kalthof on the Danzig-Polish frontier, in contradiction to the Polish version. 416 548 July 22 Memorandum by the Director of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Encloses letter from the OKWgiving Hitler's new decisions in respect of deliveries of war material to foreign countries, and reviews present state of these deliveries to Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Italy, Rumania and Turkey. 703 958 July 22 Circular of the State Secretary Instructions to Missions abroad to conduct more vigorous propaganda and to submit detailed reports. 707 965 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXI 1939 July 29 Subject Doc.No, Memorandum by the Director of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Supplements document No. 703 with further review of position on war material deliveries to Bulgaria, Rumania, Italy and Yugoslavia. [See also under the separate countries.] 738 Page 1017 Fab East Date Subject Doc. No. Page 1039 1 Mar. 23 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Has learned from Japanese press source that Japanese Five-Minister Conference has decided to open diplomatic negotiations with Germany for the purpose of concluding a military alliance directed against Russia. 70 81 Mai'. 23 Editors' Note Course of German-Japanese negotiations on a tripartite pact. 81 Apr. 24 The Ambassador in Japan to the Fweign Ministry Reports serious clashes in Japanese Cabinet over question of strengthening Anti-Comintern Pact; Array attacking Foreign Minister's conduct of these negotiations. Considers prospects favourable for Germany. 254 317 Apr. 26 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 254 and reports that Japanese press continues to exert pressure on Government to declare themselves in favour of strengthening the Anti-Comintern Fact. Has advised Vice M.F.A. that a public statement on Japan's attitude to Anglo-Russian consultations on the Far East would be desirable before the Fiihrer's speech. 266 334 Apr. 26 The Foreign Ministry to the Embassy in Japan Informs the Ambassador personally of course of secret discussions between Berlin, Rome and Tokyo for a defensive alliance, and instructs him to take no action but to report on developments. 270 337 Apr. 27 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 270, and reports has learned that instructions have been sent to Japanese Ambassador in Berlin that Japan agrees to military alliance with Germany and Italy. 275 346 Apr. 2S The State Secretary to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 275, and enquires whether Japanese Government have dropped their reservation about interpreting treaty to Western Powers. 285 360 Apr. 30 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 285, and reports differences in the Cabinet over question of including reservation in the alliance, and danger of Cabinet resigning. 298 381 XXII ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doc. No. Pago 1939 May 1 May May- May May May 6 May 8 May 8 May 11 May 15 The Foreign- Minister to the Embassy in Japan, Refers to document No. 298 and states that although the Anti-Comintern thesis may be developed in the preamble to the proposed tripartite pact, no anti-Russian tendency may appear in the articles of the pact ; the nature and extent of the assistance to be rendered are reserved for special secret discussions after the conclusion of the pact. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 298 and reports that Japanese Cabinet continue divided on alliance question. The Army hope that, in view of commitments in China, invocation of alliance will be delayed as long as possible. The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 306, and replies that both Germany and Italy have greatest interest in long period of peace. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Has learned that further decisions by Japanese Cabinet are not to be expected for- next few days. On basis of reports from Europe, Japanese Foreign Ministry acting on assumption that war will break out sometime between next autumn and spring. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Has been requested by M.F.A. to transmit text of a declaration by the Japanese Minister President to Hitler: whilst Japan is prepared to accept the principle of mili- tary assistance to Germany and Italy even if U.S.S.R. not involved, she is not at present able to render effective assistance. Furthermore, Japan must exercise utmost circumspection in giving explanations of the agreement on publication. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 326, and reports what he has learned from various sources of the views of the Army on the Japanese Minister President's statement (document No. 326), and what occasioned it. Tht Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 339, and reports further details regarding the present position of negotiations on the alliance. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Japanese Ambassador, who enquired whether projected German-Italian pact would be consistent with Berlin- Rome-Tokyo draft treaty. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 344 and reports information sup- plied by War Minister about attitude of Japanese Navy to alliance negotiations. Transmits message sent by Japanese Minister President about latter's declaration (document No. 326). The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 363, and gives reasons already advanced to Japanese Ambassador in Berlin, why, in the German and Italian view, conclusion of their pact of alliance cannot prejudice the trilateral negotiations for a, three Power pact. Instructions to press Japanese Govern- ment for speedy decision. 304 396 306 307 323 326 39S 399 416 420 339 344 345 363 382 442 454 455 473 494 ANALYTICAL LIST OP DOCUMENTS XXIII Data Subject Doc. No. Page 1939 May 15 The State Secretary to the Embassy in. Japan Transmits for the Ambassador personally (i) the draft tripartite pact for joint consultation and mutual assistance with secret protocol, as already agreed, (ii) draft of a new article on relation of present pact to German-Italian pact, (iii) a draft note on possible statements to be made by Japanese Government, (iv) a draft formal statement to be made orally by the Japanese Ambassador before signature of pact. 333 496 May 10 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Has learned that the Japanese Government attach no practical importance to assurances from the French Ambas- sador that the Anglo-Franco-Soviet negotiations are limited to Europe. 388 509 May 1 7 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 382, and reports has used these arguments with General Machijiri, who described Navy's continuing misgivings over proposed tripartite pact. Recommends that Hitler make friendly gesture of reply to Japanese Minister President. 400 522 May 20 Tlie Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Transmits summary of statement for Ribbentrop from Japanese War Minister, describing Japanese Cabinet decision on military pact. Japanese Foreign Ministry to inform German Government by May 21. Army anxious for pact to be initialled secretly, simultaneously with the signa- ture of the German-Italian pact. 410 541 May 20 Memorandum by the Director of the Legal Department Conversation with Japanese Counsellor, who endeavoured to obtain information about the forthcoming German-Italian pact and requested that the text be communicated con- fidentially to the Japanese as soon as possible. 412 543 May 22 The Japanese Ambassador to the Beicli Foreign Minister Letter transmitting his Government's telegram of con- gratulations on the conclusion of the German-Italian Alliance. 425 561 May 23 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 410, and gives an account, derived from officials in Japanese Foreign Ministry, of the genesis of Cabinet decision of May 20, 427 564 May 27 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 427 and reports information from Army sources on disagreements in Japanese Cabinet over decision on pact reached on May 20. 444 594 May 28 The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Japan Refers to documents Nos. 410 and 427 and states that promised communication of official decision by Japanese Cabinet has not been received. Instructions to make clear that non-arrival of communication is occasioning misgivings about Japanese attitude. 447 599 May 31 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 447, and reports action taken; describes varying accounts given him of reasons for failure of Japanese Cabinet to reach a decision on alliance question. 457 614 XXIV ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Subject Doc. Bo. Page 1930 June 1 June June Juno June June 14 Juno 16 June 17 June 17 June 20 The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to forthcoming visit of former German Naval Attache to Tokyo, and possibilities of influencing Japanese Navy in direction of support for German views about alliance question. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 462 and gives Ambassador argu- ments to use against Japan's fear of America in the economic field. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 462 and reports has been informed that Navy have at last accepted the Army's proposal on alliance question. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Reports information from Army sources about instruc- tions sent to Japanese Ambassador in Berlin that, m alliance question, Japan would be prepared automatically to take part in any war of Germany's, provided Russia were one of Germany's adversaries. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the, Foreign Ministry Has learned through Japanese Embassy that Japanese Government have warned Britain that conclusion of a British-Soviet alliance would considerably increase diffi- culties of reaching Anglo-Japanese settlement. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Reports information from Japanese Foreign Ministry as to reasons for Japanese attitude to Britain over Tientsin and objectives of Japanese policy in China. Memorandum by the Stale Secretary Italian Ambassador, on basis of information from Japanese Ambassador in Rome, has given present Japanese version of alliance, namely open treaty with automatic obligation of assistance in case of war, and secret protocol with reservation that obligations not automatic unless USA and U.S.S.R. are belligerents. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Japan Instructions that Admiral Foerster should make clear to Japanese Navy that only a perfectly clear alliance with Axis will ensure American neutrality. The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Japan States was only informed officially by Japanese Ambas- sador on June 14 of latest Japanese decisions on alliance Oshima's interpretation of these decisions. Japanese still held that statement about Japan's limited military capacities must be recorded in writing, which unacceptable to Axis. Discussion with Japanese Ambassador in Rome, who put forward his own proposals; these also unacceptable to Axis. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 538, and reports on his efforts to clear up Japanese "mental reservations". A success for Japanese Army in Tientsin proceedings important for alliance. 462 466 467 487 493 526 623 628 629 656 725 734 537 538 737 737 548 750 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXV Subject Doc. No. Pago 1939 June 21 June 30 July 1 July 5 July 19 July 22 July 24 July 25 July 28 July 28 July 29 fe*. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 548 and conveys Ribbentrop's approval for Ambassador to continue talks, but he should not press the question as to when treaty is to be concluded. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Japan Refers to document No. 553, and requests information on results of deliberations of Five-Minister Conference referred to in document No. 548. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 591 and states has not been able to obtain complete clarity regarding Japanese reservations which are variously interpreted. Five-Minister Conference not yet resumed. Ambassador Ott to State Secretary Weizsacker Letter describing Admiral Foerster's efforts to influence Japanese Navy; review of differences between Army and Navy on question of unconditional alliance. Memorandum by the Director of the Political Department, Conversation with Japanese Counsellor, who supplied information about latest events on Manchukuo-Outer Mongolian frontier, and then endeavoured to obtain in- formation about developments in German relations with U.S.S.R. Counsellor expressed fear of Germany affording U.S.S.R. more favourable economic treatment than Japan. Memorandum by the Director of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Refers to fears expressed by the Japanese Counsellor of Embassy that Germany might grant more favourable economic terms to U.S.S.R. than to Japan, and reviews offers on supply of machine tools made respectively to Japan and U.S.S.R. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Japanese Ambassador, who knew nothing of French press reports that Japanese Minister President had held out prospect of Japanese neutrality in a European conflict, but undertook to refer to his Government. Memorandum by the Director of the Political Department Conversation with Japanese Counsellor who furnished information on the Anglo-Japanese negotiations at present in progress. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Admiral Foerster, recently returned from Japan, who gave views of German Ambassador there that it would be expedient first to conclude a more modest treaty with Japan. Editors' Note German-Japanese Economic Agreement initialled on July 28. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Reviews situation arising out of recent Anglo-Japanese agreement as it affects Germany and transmits confidential requests from Japanese supporters of alliance with Axis, that Germany should hasten its conclusion. Recommends favourable consideration for Japanese suggestions. 553 591 597 619 68S 755 815 821 858 942 704 961 713 719 732 974 992 1011 735 1013 XXVI ANALYTICAL LIST OP DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doc. No. Page 1939 Aug. 2 Aug. 3 Memorandum by the Director of tlie Economic Policy Depart- went Conversation with Japanese Counsellor on question of preferential treatment for German trade interests in North China; Japanese concern about possible German deliveries of war material under Hapro Treaty with Chinese Govern- ment and about Russo -German economic negotiations and possibility of U.S.S.R. obtaining more favourable treatment than Japan. The Ambassador in Japan to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 735 and reports has learned that Anglo-Japanese Tientsin negotiations likely to produce agreement. Army concern at danger of this development for prospects of alliance with Axis. [See also under Italy. 1 756 762 1044 1052 Feance Date Subject Doc. No, Page 1939 Mar. IS Mar. 18 Mar. 20 Mar. 22 Mar. 24 Apr. 10 Apr. 13 Memorandum by the State Secretary Records that he has refused to accept from French Ambassador (attached) Note of protest from hia Govern- ment about German action in Czecho -Slovakia, on the grounds that such a step is in contradiction to views expressed to Ribbentrop by Bonnet and also to Franco- German Declaration of December 6, 1938. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports introduction of bill giving French Government full powers to take measures for national defence. Reviews political situation in the light of debates on the bill. The Charge a" Affaires in France to the Foreign Ministry Discusses French public opinion after promulgation of special powers law ; notes emphasis on necessity of defend- ing Rumania and attitude towards Franco-Italian relations. The. Charge a" Affaires in France to the Foreign Ministry Submits a report on an agent's conversation with the former French Minister President, Flandin, who discussed repercussions of Germany's annexation of Czecho-Slovakia on Franco-German understanding. The Charge oV Affaires in France to the Foreign Ministry Refers to reports in the Paris press that on the occasion of the French President's visit to London, Chamberlain, Halifax and Bonnet signed a protocol or exchanged aide' m&moires, by which France and Britain undertook to assist the Netherlands and Switzerland should they bo attacked. The Charge a" Affaires in France to the Foreign, Ministry Sends report from reliable source on views expressed by French Minister of Marine Campinchi; Germany's present policy renders war inevitable. The Charge eV Affaires in France to the Foreign Ministry Comments on the implications of the French declaration concerning support for Rumania and Greece and concerning the Franco-Polish alliance. 20 20 22 49 69 84 177 188 23 51 77 101 212 230 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCtJMENTS xxvti Date 1939 Apr. 29 Subject Doc. No. Page The Chargl d' Affaires in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports on reaction in France to Hitler'3 speech; con- siders effect has been reassuring in spite of adverse attitude of press. May 9 Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with French Ambassador, who enquired about possibility of further German-Polish conversations; in replying, Weizsacker tried to make clear to French Ambassador that Beck's present attitude provided no point of contact. May 13 The- Ambassador in France- to the Foreign Ministry Analyses the political situation in France in the light of Daladier's speech on behalf of the Government on May 11. May 17 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports has learned that in consequence of visit to Paris of Polish War Minister, Kasprzycki, a French military delegation is shortly to leave for Poland. May 20 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports conversation with M.F.A., whose attention he , drew to the dangers for France of following the British | policy of encirclement of Germany. Bonnet reaffirmed his j own resolve to work for peace but stressed loss of confidence resulting from German occupation of Prague. May 23 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Transmits memorandum from reliable informant about a conversation with former French Minister President Flandin on the European situation. June 5 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Discusses political mentality of the French which causes them to have no understanding for basic political demands, such as right to "living space". June 6 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Exports on conversation between an Embassy informant and former French Minister President Flandin ; latter 's views on international situation and French policy. June 6 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Transmits information obtained by an informant on Anglo-Franco-Polish military conversations. June 9 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Transmits report on a conversation between an Embassy informant and French Deputy, Marcel Deat, who believed that Germany's aspirations in Eastern Europe could be realized peacefully after a quiet period of waiting. June 17 Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with French Ambassador, who spoke in similar terms to those used by British Ambassador, and said that, Anglo-Franco-Russian pact once concluded, diplo- matic conversations with Axis Powers could take place more easily. June 21 The State Secretary to the Embassy in France Instructions to Ambassador to remain in Paris until informed of date when he should visit Berlin for discussion with Bibbentrop; meantime to avoid important political conversations. 290 353 379 399 409 430 477 481 482 501 539 366 463 489' 522 539 569 641 647 648 688 740 754 XXVIII ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Dato 1939 June 29 Jniifi 30 June 30 July 1 July 2 July 9 July 12 July 13 July 13 July 14 July 15 Subject Doc.Hb. Page Editors' 1 Note Prolongation of Franco-German Trade and Payments 813 Agreement of July 10, 1937. The State Secretary to the Embassy in France 592 810 Informs Ambassador that Ribbentrop has again denned instructions given Welczeck orally on what he should say in diplomatic conversations, particularly to French M.F.A., on problem of Poland. Memorandum by the State Secretary 594 gjg Conversation with French Ambassador on general political situation; Weizsacker developed the same line of thought as contained in latest instructions to German Ambassador in Paris {document No. 592). Note from the French Government 602 827 States that the Franco-German Declaration of December 6, 1938, does not affect the special relations of France to the countries of Eastern Europe and stresses France's deter- mination to fulfil her obligations under the Franco-Polish alliance; states what circumstances would bring these obligations into play. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry 603 Refers to document No. 592 and reports carrying out his instructions in conversation with French M.F.A. on the political situation. Bonnet replied by describing his own policy and gave him a Note for transmission to Ribbentrop (document No. 602). The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in France 640 886 Instructions to make energetic demarche to French Minister President regarding the French Government's action in denying Abetz entry into France and to obtain requisite permission. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry 658 907 Refers to document No. 640 and reports representations made to French Minister President about Abetz case. The State Secretary to the Embassy in France 664 913 Conveys Ribbentrop's views that Ambassador has not conducted d-marche on Abetz case firmly enough. States Abetz will be returning to France shortly and instructs Welczeck to report what steps taken to facilitate this. Memorandum by the State Secretary 665 914 Conversation with French Ambassador, to whom he represented harm done by British Prime Minister in his latest speech. The State Secretary to the Ambassador in France 669 917 Instructions to transmit enclosed letter from Ribbentrop to Bonnet as soon as possible. Letter replies to document No. 602, and describes German position on German -French relations in general and on Danzig question in particular. Ambassador Welczeck to State Secretary Weizsacker ' 676 928 Letter complaining of attempts to discredit him with Buro Ribbentrop by representing him as opposed to Abetz and latter's activities in France. ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXIX Date 1939 July 20 Subject Doe. No. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports demarche made to French Minister President on Abetz affair. Daladier complained of discrepancies between the two versions of what had occurred, and promised to re-examine the case. July 25 Foreign Minister Bonnet to Foreign Minister Ribbentrop Letter in reply to document No. 669. States that at no time, either before or after Franco -German Declaration of December 6, 1938, has it been possible for the German Government to think that France had decided to disinterest herself in Eastern Europe ; France is eager for peace but will fulfil her obligations under the Franco -Polish Treaty of Alliance. Julv 28 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Reports information from well informed sources as to reasons why Britain and France have agreed to enter into military discussions with U.S.S.R. before reaching agree- I ment on a- political treaty. July 30 The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry \ Reviews emergency decrees approved that day by French Council of Ministers. July 30 Aug. Aug. The Ambassador in France to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 731, and states that preparations for the despatch of French and British military delegations to Moscow are proceeding actively. The State Secretary to the Embassy in France Ambassador instructed to remain in Paris until Abetz assured of unhindered stay there; Abetz to be given every assistance in conducting his lawsuit against French journalist Keriilis. The State Secretary to the Embassy in France Informs Ambassador that, though no valid expulsion order exists against Abetz, he has been refused entry into Fraiice. Conveys Ribbentrop's instructions to make a direct approach forthwith either to Daladier or Bonnet. [See also under TvrHy.J 690 946 90S 731 740 741 767 1010 1019 1021 1013 1062 Great Britain Date 1939 Mar. 16 Mar. 17 liar. 18 Subject Doc. No. Circular of the Director of the Political Department States that, on March 15, British Ambassador trans- mitted a letter (document No. 234 in vol. IV) to Ribbentrop, and summarizes contents. Memorandum by ike State Secretary Conversation with British Ambassador to whom he gave the reasons for the German action in O-echo-SIovakia. Memorandum by the State Secretary In reply to British Ambassador's request for an interview to deliver a Note of protest from his Government, has informed him that such an interview would serve no useful purpose. Page 10 16 19 16 19 XXX ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject iDoc. No. Page 1939 Mar. 18 Mar. 18 Mar. 18 Mar. 18 Mar. 18 Mar. 19 Mar. 20 Mar. 20 Mar. 28 Mar. 29 Mar. 31 The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Discusses motives for Prime Minister's speech on March 1 7. Refers to report in the press alleging attempted German economic subjugation of Rumania in return for German guarantee of Rumanian independence, and requests in- structions. - - Memorandum by the State Secretary Instructions telephoned to Ambassador in London to ask the British Government to explain what they intend by the way they have announced the recall of their Ambassador from Berlin. Memorandum by the State Secretary Records receipt of (attached) Note from the British Ambas- sador, which protests against the German action in Czecho-- Slovakia, characterizing it as complete repudiation of the Munich Agreement. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reviews changes in the British attitude towards Germany brought about by events in Czecho-Slovakia, and speculates on probable future course of British foreign policy. Memorandum by the State Secretary Adds to his record in document No. 16 that the British Ambassador stated that, although Britain was not directly interested in the Czecho-Slovak territory, Henderson feared that Germany was now embarking on a policy of territorial expansion, which would end by nullifying prospects of an Anglo-German understanding. The Charge" d' Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry i Has learned that the Rumanian Minister in London, on his own initiative, has told the Foreign Office of unreasonable German economic demands on Rumania. The Charge d' Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to statements by Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary and reports what he has heard from reliable informants respecting British intentions about guarantee arrangements with certain States. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secre- tariat Records Ribbentrop's instructions that any fresh British initiative for a later visit to Berlin by the British Ministers is not to be agreed. The Embassy in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports statement by the British Government that they do not intend to take any. economic measures against Germany as "reprisal" for German measures in Bohemia and Moravia. The Chargi, d' Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reviews state of British negotiations on declaration projects as revealed in speeches in British Parliament and in press comment; considerations affecting these negotia- tions, and the treaty systems which appear to be planned. The Charge a" Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Transmits text of Prime Minister's statement in House of Commons on British Government's interim guarantee to Poland. 23 26 35 36 26 27 36 40 42 48 54 116 121 136 46 145 150 171 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXXI Date Subject Doc. No. Page 1939 Mar. 31 Apr. Apr II The Chargi d'Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 136, and reports further state- ments on British assistance by Foreign Office spokesman. Memorandum by the State Secretary Enquiry by British Counsellor of Embassy as to whether Hitler's speech (of April 1) should be taken as a denunciation i of the Naval Agreement. Has replied that denunciation of an agreement takes place through diplomatic channels. The Charge d' Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports information given by Italian Charge d'Affaires on exchanges between Italy and Britain before and after Italian occupation of Albania,. Apr. 1 1 The Embassy in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports on the visit of the British Secretary to the Department of Overseas Trade to Warsaw, Moscow, Hel- j sinki and Stockholm, and comments on possible significance " of British negotiations for a new trade agreement with the U.S.S.R. which are shortly to take place in London Apr. 13 Apr. 17 Apr. 19 Apr. 21 .Apr. 26 Apr. 36 Apr. 27 The Charge d'Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Transmits text of Prime Minister's announcement in the House of Commons of the British guarantee to Greece and Rumania. Memorandum by the Deputy Director of the Political Depart- ment Records visit from British Charge d'Affaires who spoke of German complaints about British encirclement policy, German policy on Danzig and the Czech question and the possible retxirn of a British Ambassador to Berlin. The Charge d'Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports information from a reliable source as to proposals submitted by Britain and France to Soviet Russia for the so-called pact of mutual assistance and enquiry by Soviet Government as to a quid pro quo. The Charge d'Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 233 and reports the points con- tained in the Soviet counter proposals to the British proposals he has previously reported. The Charge d'Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 239, and reports has learned that British reply to Soviet proposals for Three Power Pact will be tantamount to a rejection. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation" with the British Ambassador, who came to announce the British statement on conscription, and stated that Chamberlain believed that best way to maintain peace was for Britain to demonstrate her readiness to fight in case of necessity, whilst remaining determined to seek peaceful solutions. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Great Britain Instructs Charge d'Affaires to arrange for an interview at the Foreign Office on April 28 to deliver a memorandum, at a time to coincide with start of Hitler's speech. 137 172 156 I 193 182 219 183 189 220 233 239 269 220 232 269 289 299 336 344 273 345 XXXII ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Subject 1939 Apr. 27 Apr. Apr. 28 Apr. 29 May May 2 May 4 May May 11 May 11 May 14 Note to the British Government The German Government consider that, in view of recent British policy, they must regard the British Government as having unilaterally put out of force the German-British Naval Agreement of 1935 and the Declaration and Part III of the Naval Agreement of 1 93 7, but that the German Govern- ment will continue to abide by the qualitative provisions of the 1937 Agreement. Counsellor of Embassy Kordt to State Secretary Weizscicker Transmits a memorandum on a demarche alleged to have been mode by Britain to Poland on April 19. Circular of the State Secretary States that the denunciation of the German-British Naval Agreement does not apply to the "qualitative" provisions of the 1937 Agreement; instructions to emphasize in conversa- tions that German Government wish to avoid naval armaments race. The Embassy in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports on British reactions to Hitler's speech. The Charge a" Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports information from a Japanese diplomat that no headway is being made in the Anglo-Soviet negotiations on account of Russian demands for an alliance and guarantee of their Far Eastern frontiers. Editors' Note Interview between Ribbentrop and the British Ambas- sador on May 2. The Charge d' Affaires in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 269 and reports that British Government continue to decline the Soviet proposal for a pact of mutual assistance between Britain, France and Russia. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign. Ministry Refers to document No. 327 and reports information from a reliable source on British counter proposals to the Soviet proposal for an Anglo-Soviet pact of assistance. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Discusses statement by Chamberlain in House of Com- mons on Anglo -Russian negotiations. Considers that this statement concealed continuing fundamental divergence of views in negotiations. Counsellor of Embassy Selzam to Ministerialdirelctor Wiehi Letter announcing the impending visit to Berlin of Mr. Henry Drummond-Wolff. The visit, although private, is undertaken with the knowledge of the Prime Minister's closest advisers. Memorandum by an Official of the Economic Policy Depart- ment Summarizes a confidential conversation on Anglo- German economic relations with Mr. H. Drummond-Wolff from London, who conveyed that he was in Berlin with the knowledge of the close adviser of the British Cabinet. 277 27S 282 Page 351 353 357 291 36S 309 400 327 343 362 368 380 407 422 453 472 477 491 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXXIII Date 1939 May 15 May 15 May 17 May 18 May 31 Jane 3 June 5 Undated June 12 June 13 June 20 Subject The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 343 and reports information from a reliable source about the terms of the Soviet reply, pre- sented that evening, to the British proposals previously reported. Has learned that Lord Halifax intends to negotiate directly with Potemkin in Geneva. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the British Ambassador, who said that Britain did not desire war, and wished to avoid it through a German-Polish settlement, but was nevertheless deter- mined to go to Poland's help if Germany tried to alter the status of Danzig by force. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 381 and reports that British intention of continuing negotiations at Geneva by talks between Halifax and Potemkin has been frustrated by Maisky's being sent to Geneva instead. Editors' Note Conversation between Halifax and Dirksen on Anglo- German relations. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Sends information from reliable source about what is contained in a new British proposal presented in Moscow on May 27. The Ambassador in Oreat Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports disappointment in Britain over Soviet Union's attitude in negotiations. The Ambassador in Oreat Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to_ document No. 458 and reports that new Soviet note to Britain contains, in more conciliatory form, the objections formulated by Molotov in his speech of May 31. Editors' Note Wohlthat's conversations in London on June 6-7. Unsigned Memorandum Impressions gained by Adam von Trott zu Solz from conversations with British Foreign Secretary, Prime Minister and other leading politicians and journalists during a fact finding visit to Britain, on June 1-8. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 473 and reports has learned that British answer to Soviet Note has been sent first to Paris for approval; gives substance of British draft reply. Memorandum by the Slate Secretary Conversation with British Ambassador, who stated that, the Russian pact once concluded, discussions with Berlin should be possible, and spoke of London's willingness to negotiate with Berlin on disarmament, economic relations and the colonial question. Memorandum by an Official of the Dienststelle Ribbentrop Confidential report on statements by British journalist in Berlin, who had just returned from London, about British public opinion there. Doc. No. Page 381 385 401 458 46S 473 497 511 521 551 493 502 524 538 616 629 634 601 674 ■70S 718 753 XXXIV ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS 1939 June 24 Subject Doc. No. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reviews factors underlying recent trends in British foreign policy; detects disillusionment over consequences of encirclement action. Discusses whether Chamberlain's position is strong enough to enable him to make a construc- tive move towards Germany. June 27 Memorandum from the British Embassy in Germany British Government's reply to the German Memorandum of April 27 (document No. 277). Reasons why British Government cannot agree that there has been any change in their policy to justify action of German Government over Anglo-German Naval Agreements, and request to know meaning of German offer to enter into negotiations in regard to future problems. June 27 Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with British Ambassador. Weizsacker con- tested Ambassador's view that conclusion of British talks in Moscow would be beneficial for initiation of German- British talks. June 28 State Secretary Weizsacker to Ambassador Dirksen Letter commenting on certain indications of a British inclination to enter into discussions with Germany on out- standing questions. June 29 The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry ■ Beports terms of a British formula for negotiations with the U.S.S.K sent to British Ambassador in Moscow. Con- siders that British and French instructions admit of con- clusion that Russian demands are to be met in full. June 30 The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Discusses Halifax's speech on foreign affairs made on June 29 and its reception by the press. July 3 The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No, 593 and describes campaign by certain circles in Britain to create a war psychosis by spreading false reports from Danzig. July 7 The Auslandsorganisation to the Chief of the Reich Chancellery Encloses a situation report by Press Director of Landes- grappe for Great Britain dealing with public opinion, military preparations, and organization of propaganda in Britain. July 10 The Ambassador in Great Britain to t}ie Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 606 and states that campaign of incitement about coup in Danzig being imminent has col- lapsed. Analyses British Government policy towards Germany. July 10 Editors' Note Statement by British Prune Minister on recent events in Danzig. July 12 ! The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports information received from reliable source_ about disagreements in Anglo-Franco-Soviet pact negotiations ; over interpretation of term "internal aggression" and over | military part question. 504 571 Page 780 791 572 577 581 593 006 630 645 797 802 807 817 832 874 891 S98 657 905 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS XXXV Date 1939 July M July 1* July 14 July 17 July 17 July 21 July 22 July 24 July 24 July 24 July 25 Subject Doc.No.j Page Memorandum by the Stale Secretary Conversation with the British Ambassador after latter's short visit to London ; Henderson enquired about possibility of a press truce, and criticized Commander King- Hall's pro- paganda by news letters. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the British Ambassador about German failure to issue exequatur for British Consul General in Trague, relation of this question to British non -recognition of Protectorate, and Anglo -German negotiations on Czech gold reserves in United Kingdom. Counsellor Erich Kordt to State Secretary Weizsdcker Letter conveying Ribbentrop's instructions that Ambas- sador Dirksen should await special instructions before returning to London from his normal leave. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 567 (see under Rumania) and reports has learned from reliable source that British Ambas- sador in Moscow instructed to make no further concessions to Soviet wishes on indirect aggression and on a military pact. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the British Ambassador whom he informed of substance of Bonnet-Ribbentrop correspond- ence (documents Nos. 602 and 669 ? see under France). Subject of press truce further discussed. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 679 and reports that, in order to break deadlock in negotiations with Moscow, France has proposed to Britain dropping objections to simultaneous conclusion of a political treaty and military convention. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Reports that during Wohlthat's visit to London he was invited to have discussions with Hudson and Sir H. Wilson ; British press publishing fantastic reports about these dis- cussions. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 698, and reports press publicity given to alleged statements by Hudson on his conversations with Wohlthat, which are being exploited by the opponents of any understanding with Germany. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Discusses possibilities of British Government turning to a more constructive policy towards Germany. Memorandum by an Official on the Staff of the Four Tear Plan Account by Wohlthat of his conversations in London, with Sir H. Wilson on July 18 and 21, with Sir J. Ball on July 20, and with Mr. R. S. Hudson on July 20. Ambassador Dirksen to State Secretary Weizsdcker Letter enclosing a copy of document No. 710, and expres- sing the view that distorted press versions of Wohlthat- Hudson conversation may have advantage of keeping in background more important conversations between Wohl- that and Sir H. Wilson, thus affording possibility of con- tinuing them. 671 672 674 079 921 022 926 930 682 932 695 69S 708 710 716 723 052 954 966 969 977 1001 XXXVI ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Bate Subject Doc. No. 1939 July 31 July 31 July 31 July 31 Aug, 1 Aug. 1 Aug. 3 Aug. 4 Aug. 4 Undated The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Great Britain Instructions to report immediately on political conversa- tions Wohlthat held in London, and in particular on his conversation with Dirksen himself. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 743 and describes circumstances which led Wohlthat to have discussions with Hudson and Wilson. Reports on his own conversation with Wohlthat, in which the conclusions to be drawn from Wilson's state- ment were discussed. The State Secretary to the Embassy in Great Britain. Refers to document No. 743 and informs Ambassador that Wohlthat's report on his conversation with Sir H. Wilson has reached Ribbentrop through Goring. British appear to regard Wilson's suggestions as official feeler. Requests report about conversations and Dirksen's altitude to them. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Discusses most suitable methods for enlightening British public opinion on German foreign policy and Danzig question ; describes the Embassy's activities in this respect. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 743 and gives his views on inter- pretation to be put on Wohlthat-Wilson conversation. The Ambassador in Great Britain to the Foreign Ministry States that Webrmacht attaches report scepticism in British military circles about the forthcoming military talks with U.S.S.R. Discusses probable British intentions in holding such talks. Editors' Note Conversation between German Ambassador in London and Sir H. Wilson on August 3. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with British Ambassador, who gave four reasons for his fear that 'war might arise, and spoke of possibility of achieving a political truce between Germany and Poland till following spring or summer. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with British Ambassador who expects to be near Salzburg at end of August but hesitates to trouble Ribbentrop by calling on him. Editors' Note Mission of the Swedish industrialist, Birger Dahlerus. Unsigned Memorandum Review of public opinion in Britain given to Goring by a group of British industrialists at a meeting at Sonke Kissen Koog, arranged by Swedish industrialist, Dahlerus. [See also under France, Rumania and U.S.S.R.] Italy, Poland, Protectorate, 743 746 748 751 752 753 769 770 783 1022 1024 1026 1028 1033 1034 1062 1064 1065 1088 1088 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Greece XXXVII Date 193!) Apr. 19 May- June 20 Subject Doc. No. Tage The Minister in Greece to Ike Foreign Ministry Beports conversation with Greek State Secretary, who explained Greek attitude to Anglo-French guarantee. The Minister in Greece to the Foreign Ministry Enquires about reported decision to grant an armaments credit to Greece and requests instructions. Memorandum, by the Director of the Political Department Conversation with Greek Minister on Greece's policy of strict neutrality and interpretation to be put upon the paragraph in Anglo-Turkish Declaration relating to the Balkans. Minister renewed assurances that Greece did not want to enter into any new commitments. 287 418 732 Holy See Date 1939 Mar. 18 Mar. Apr. 21 Apr. 24 May 10 May 12 May 12 Subject Doc. So. The Ambassador to the Holy See to the Foreign Ministry Suggests that, in view of the friendly attitude shown by the Vatican, the German press should continue to observe an attitude of restrained objectivity towards Vatican affairs. The Ambassador to the Holy See to the Foreign Ministry Has learned from good source that attempts to induce the Pope to associate himself with the protests of the demo- cratic States against the annexation of Bohemia and Moravia have failed. The Ambassador to the Holy See to the Foreign Ministry Beports has learned that President Boosevelt's peace appeal has been severely criticized in Vatican circles. State Secretary Weizsacker to Ambassador Bergen Letter requesting him to come to Berlin ostensibly on private visit, but in reality to discuss relations with the Vatican. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Personal Staff Beoords a conversation between Hitler and the Papal Nuncio, who, on instructions from the Pope, put forward proposal for a conference of five European Great Powers to find a solution to the German-Polish and Franco-Italian problems. Hitler replied he must first consult Mussolini, and said he did not believe war imminent. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the Nuncio to whom, in the absence of Bibbentrop, he made a provisional reply to the Nuncio's demarche on the question of peace made to Hitler on May 5. Memorandum by the State Secretary Bemarfcs by the Nuncio in addition to those recorded in document No. 372; Nuncio indicated that he would welcome another conversation with Hitler. 28 65 240 258 331 Page 29 74 300 322 42G 372 373 481 483 XXXVIII ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doe. No. Page 1939 Mav 16 Mnv 23 .Tune July Unsigned Memorandum Suggestions by the German Ambassador to the Holy See on the best methods of reaching a settlement with the Curia. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secre- tariat Reception "of the Apostolic Nuncio by Ribbentrop, who gave official German reply to the Pope's proposal. Ambassador Bergen to Foreign Minister Ribbentrop Letter describing his audience with the Pope, at which he was able, as instructed, to put forward proposals for promoting a detente in German-Vatican relations. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with the Nuncio who stated that suggestion previously made to him hy Weizsacker, that the clergy in Western Poland could contribute to easing situation, was being followed up in Rome, where it was hoped that Germany was also working for peace. 393 396 502 623 516 531) 690 865 Hungary Date Subject Doc. No. Page 1939 Mar. 16 Mar. IS Mar. 20 Mar. 23 Mar. 23 Mar. 24 The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports is informed by M.F.A. that Hungarian Army has been ordered to eject Rumanians should they attempt to invade the Carpatho -Ukraine, but, in return for concessions elsewhere, Hungary is prepared to cede certain areas to Rumania. Memorandum by the Director of the Political Department Information from Hungarian Minister that his Govern- ment had not notified any other Government in advance of their intention to occupy the Carpatho-Ukraine, and about the Hungarian attitude to Rumanian claims. Memorandum by the State Secretary Hungarian Minister has presented a letter for Ribbentrop concerning Hungarian occupation of, and assumption of sovereignty over, the Carpatho-Ukraine, and stating that Hungary intends to negotiate direct with Rumania and Slovakia on frontier question. Minute by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secretariat Note of telephone conversation in which Ribbentrop drew attention of Hungarian Minister to reports that the Hun- garians had advanced into eastern Slovakia; the latter stated that only those areas had been occupied which Hungary claimed as frontier rectification against Slovakia. Memorandum by the State Secretary Hungarian Minister has mentioned a request made by Ribbentrop that certain members of the Sic should not be denied transit rights through the Carpatho-Ukraine. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Has learned from M.F.A. that latter intends to inform Rumanian Minister that if Rumania will state officially that she will commence demobilization, Hungary will immediate- ly rescind measures adopted for the defence of Budapest. 39 53 76 77 S2 41 62 S9 99 ANALYTICAL LIST OP DOCUMENTS XXXIX Subject Doc. No. Pago 1939 Mar. 25 Mar. liar. 20 Mar. 20 Mar. 20 Mar. 30 Apr. Apr. Apr. 15 Memorandum by the State. Secretary Encloses a letter from Horthy to Hitler taking note with thanks of the German statement relating to Slovakia and drawing attention to the need for a new frontier demarca- tion between Slovakia and the Ruthenian territory. Memorandum by the State. Secretary Enquiry by Hungarian Minister about rumours that the German Economic Treaty with Rumania had been linked with political concessions. TJte Director of the Political Department to the Legation in Hungary States Germany does not intend to intervene in the Hungarian-Slovak frontier negotiations. Instructions to evade discussion of, and if necessary, to contradict, allega- tions that Hungary's invasion of Slovakia had Germany's approval. Memorandum by the Slate Secretary Conversation with Hungarian Minister who believed that rapid conclusion of German-Rumanian Economic Treaty was due to Hungarian military measures. Hungary no longer willing to cede a few villages in the Carpatho- Ukraine to Rumania. Memorandum by the State Secretary Enquiry by Hungarian Minister about German-Polish conversations on Danzig ; Minister hinted that Csaky would be willing to advise conciliatory attitude in Warsaw. The State Secretary to the Legation in Hungary Transmits report from Legation in Bucharest stating that Hungary demands recognition of her now frontiers with Rumania and proposes issuing declaration along lines of hitherto unsigned Bled declaration. Instructions about the German views on this proposal. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Minisby Refers to document No. 132, and reports that Hungarian M.F.A. denies having demanded Rumanian recognition of the new frontiers, but has declared he is ready to negotiate after a complete Rumanian demobilization. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports has been informed by Hungarian M.F.A. that latter has denied to Rumanian Minister British press roports about the return of parts of Rumanian territory to Hungary and about an imminent Hungarian attack on Rumania; Csaky likewise refused to put Bled Agreement into effect but offered to negotiate entirely fresh agreement. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports has been informed by Hungarian M.F.A. that the reasons for detente in Hungarian-Rumanian relations is a Rumanian Note declaring that, in view of statements that Hungary intends to respect Rumanian frontier, Rumania will reduce mobilization. Apr. 17 Memorandum by the State Secretary Hungarian Minister has enquired about German frontier guarantee for Rumania. a possible 01} 120 122 123 132 140 163 11. "i 116 149 131 152 167 1S3 202 204 219 247 268 XL ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject Doc, No. Page 1939 Apr. 22 Apr, 30 Apr. 29 May May 25 June 10 June 1 2 June 13 June IS June 28 The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports account given him by M.F.A. of Jatter's con- versations with Mussolini and Ciano: Csaky emphasized that Hungary was prepared in principle to conclude a non- aggression pact and a treaty of friendship with Yugoslavia. Ciano intended to tell Yugoslav M.F.A. this, and to recom- mend Yugoslav accession to Anti-Comintern Pact. Memorandum by the Minister in Hungary Records the reception of the Hungarian Minister President and M.F.A. by Ribbentrop; latter's survey of the general political situation. Discussion of Hungarian-Rumanian and Hungarian- Yugoslav relations. Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Personal Staff Conversation between Hitler and the Hungarian Minister President and M.F.A. on the general political situation. Memorandum by the Minister in Hungary Records second conversation between Ribbentrop and Hungarian Minister President and M.F.A. Discussion of questions at issue between Germany, Hungary and Slovakia arising from the partition of Czecho-Slovakia ; complaints of anti-Hungarian propaganda in Slovakia; grievances of minorities ; Hungarian offer of mediation in German- Polish relations declined. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reviews complaints by M.F.A. and other Hungarian politicians of German support given to the Hungarian Arrow Cross party, which is causing embarrassment to Hungarian Government. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports M.F.A. has told him of a Yugoslav proposal for concluding an agreement between Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Rumania and Hungary, with subsequent Turkish adherence. Csaky, out of consideration for Axis Powers, will not enter- tain this proposal. The Slate Secretary to the Legation in Hungary Refers to document No. 503 and requests that further enquiries be made into meaning and purpose of Yugoslav initiative for agreement between herself, Bulgaria, Rumania and Hungary, with Turkey as mediator. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Refers to document No. 510 and reports the result of enquiries made of Hungarian Deputy M.F.A. The Minister in Hungary to the Foreign Ministry Reports has carried out instructions to raise with M.F.A. question of Hungary attempting to use Turkish good offices in territorial dispute between Hungary and Rumania. Csaky explained reasons for this action. The Hungarian Minister in Germany to State Secretary Weiz- sticker Letter transmittingmemorandum on proposals by Hungarian Government for tripartite talks between Germany, Italy and Hungary to concert measures in the field of war economy. 24S 307 295 296 300 372 376 3S3 436 503 510 519 542 578 583 692 715 745 S02 ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS Date Subject DOC. No. Page 1939 June 29 June 29 June 30 July 9 July 22 July 24 Aug. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Hungarian Minister who stated, his Government intended to Temonstrate -with British Govern- ment about effect of British guarantee to Rumania on treat- ment of Hungarian minority in Rumania. Memorandum by the State Secretary Hungarian Minister has drawn attention to strengthening of Rumanian Army which would result if Rumanian orders for arms placed in Germany were fulfiiled, and proposed some limitation on such supplies. Minute by an Official of Political Division I Decision reached in conference with Keitel on Hungarian request to hold preparatory talks on war economy with the Axis Powers. Memorandum by the State Secretary States Ribbentrop in favour of joint preparatory work for war economy with Hungary, but this should not start till after first meeting on this subject with the Italians. Memorandum by Ambassador Hitter Conversation with Hungarian Minister about the Hun- garian proposal contained in document No. 578. Memorandum by the State Secretary Conversation with Hungarian Minister who presented two letters from his Minister President to the Fiihrer. In the first letter Teleki states that, in event of general conflict, Hungary will make her policy conform to that of the Axis, and proposes tripartite discussions on war economy. In the second Teleki states that Hungary would not on moral grounds be in a position to take action against Poland. Memorandum by the Minister in Hungary Record of conversations between Hitler and Cs&ky in presence of Ribbentrop and others. Hitler's displeasure at letter from Count Teleki stating Hungary could not parti- cipate in German-Polish conflict; reasons for believing German success to be in Hungary's interests ; determination to settle Polish question; views on attitude of other States in case of conflict. Promise subsequently made by Cs6ky to Ribbentrop to withdraw Teteki letters. [See also under Italy, Poland, Rumania, Slovakia, Turkey and Yugoslavia.} 584 583 595 641 706 712 810 811 820 888 963 972 84 1093 Italy 1 1 >



Bate


Subject


Doc. No.


Page


1939
Mar. 17


The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Reports that Ciano, on Mussolini's instructions, confirmed
Italy's approval of Germany's action in Czecho-Slovakia,
but drew attention to rumours of Croat intentions to
establish Croat autonomy under German protection; the
Duce could not show the same desinlirestement in the Croat
question as over Czecho-Slovakia.


15


15



U-



XLII



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



Date



Subject



Doc. So.



Page



1939
Mar. 18



Mar. IS



Mar. 19



Mar. 20



Mar. 20



Mar. 20



Mar. 21



Mar. 21



Mar. 24



Mar. 24



Jtfemoconcfum % (Tie iStae Secretary

Has been told privately by Italian Ambassador of account
the latter had received from Rome on the mission of Prince
Philip of Hesse, and Mussolini's reply.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Italian Ambassador has enquired about documents,
alleged by British press to exist, showing that Germany's
march into Czecho-SSovakia was already settled several
weeks in advance.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Further representations made by the Italian Ambassador
regarding Germany's arrears of coal deliveries to Italy, and
the political aspects of this question.

The Ambassador in Italy to tlie Foreign Ministry

Refers to document No. IS and reports conversation, with
Ciano, to whom he gave 'assurances about the German
attitude to the Croat question. Ciano stated that Italy
desired continuance of present Yugoslav State, but should
Croat autonomy movement develop, would expect complete
desintcressement from Germany,

Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secre-
tariat
Note on a conversation between Hitler and the Italian
Ambassador, in Ribbentrop's presence. Hitler reviews the
prospects for the Axis Powers in the event of a European
war. Discussion of Italian claims against France.

Foreign Minister Bibbentrop to Foreign Minister Ciano

Letter expressing appreciation of Italy's attitude during
recent events in Czecho-Slovakia and assuring him of
Germany's desintiressement in Croat question.

The State Secretary to the Embassy in Italy

States that General Keitel has been asked to inform the
Italian authorities that he is ready to open General Staff
talks with them.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Has made urgent representations to Reich Minister of
Economics about the political importance of coal deliveries
to Italy ; Funk referred to Germany's own shortage.

Memorandum by the Ambassador in Italy

Has had sent by special courier to Berlin two memoranda
(attached) on the speech by Mussolini at the Fascist Grand
Council on March 21, concerning Axis solidarity.

Ambassador Mackensen to Counsellor Erich Kordt

Letter referring to further instructions from Ribbentrop
about the record of the Hitler-Attolico conversation (docu-
ment No. 52) and transmitting a memorandum on his
conversation with Attolico about this. According to
Attolico Mussolini seemed much annoyed at being con-
fronted with afait accompli over Czecho -Slovakia, but had
now accepted the course of events.



37



38



44



45



40



41



47



48



52



55



57



62



86



87



57



63



66



73



102



106



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



XLIII



1939
Mar. 25



Mar.



Mar. 26



liar.



Mar. 28



Mar. 31



Subject



Doc. NoJ Pago



Apr.



Apr.



Apr.



Apr.



Apr.



Circular of the Foreign Minister

States that Germany's relations with Italy m the Axis
require that Italian intentions should be decisive for
German policy in respect of the Mediterranean countries,
particularly in the case of policy towards minorities there.
No connections must in future be maintained with Croat
organizations.

The Fukrer and Chancellor to the Head of the Italian Govern-
ment
Letter of congratulations on the 20th anniversary of the
foundation of Fascism; assures Mussolini of Germany's
unchanging friendship.

Editors' Note

Mussolini's speech on March 26, 1939, the 20th anniversary
of the foundation of the Fascist Formations.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Enquiry by Italian Charge d' Affaires about Bulgarian
reactions to the German-Rumanian Economic Treaty.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Reports explanation given him by Ciano of statement by
Mussolini in his speech on March 26 that he refused to take
any kind of initiative. Reason was a personal letter to
Mussolini from Chamberlain, begging the Duce to consider
whether he could not take action to relieve present tension.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Conversation with Italian Ambassador, who discussed
German-Italian relations and complained that recent
German treatment of Italy had been inconsiderate. He
desired clearer definition of German-Italian interests.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Has denied the Italian Ambassador's allegation that there
must still be irregular connections between Germany and
the South Tyrol through the Aussenpolitisches Amt.

Memorandum by the Stale Secretary

Has given Italian Ambassador a formal assurance about
contacts between the Croats and German authorities.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Has learned that Italo-Albanian negotiations are in pro-
gress to establish Italian Protectorate over Albania. Has
enquired of M.F.A., who gave an account of Italo-Albanian
relations and Italian intentions.

The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Italy

Instructions to inform Italian M.F.A. with regard to
Albanian question, that Germany welcomes any strengthen-
ing of Italian influence.

Memorandum by the Head of Folitical Division I Va

Records discussion of South Tyrol questions with Magi-
strati, who put forward, as only possible solution to the
problem, the resettlement of all South Tyrolese in Germany;
Mussolini would agree to this plan if proposed to him by
Hitler.



94



113



100



110



114



140



143



144



150



loS



163



110



123



137



142



174



179



ISO



187



194



19S



XLIV



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



Sate

1039
Apr. 6



Apr. 7

Apr. 7

Apr. S

Apr, 11

Apr. 14

Apr. 14

Apr. 15

Apr. 15



Apr. 15
Apr. 15



Subject



Doc. No.



Page



Memorandum by the State Secretary

Has been informed by Italian Ambassador that Italian
troops will land in Albania on April 7, and will occupy the
country.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Refers to document No. 158, and reports hag carried out
instructions with M.F.A., who informed him of Italy's
decision to land troops in Albania and reasons for this.

Memorandum by the Stale Secretary
Italian Ambassador has made
German coal supplies to Italy.



urgent appeal about



The Deputy Director of the Economic Policy Department to
the Embassy in Italy
States that special efforts are being made to increase
deliveries of coal to Italy.

The Foreign Minister to the Embassy in Italy

Transmits message for Goring, stating that was unaware
Goring was paying official state visit to Italy, and requesting
him to inform German Ambassador sn Rome of his pro-
gramme.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Has been informed by Italian Ambassador of conversation
latter had had with Reich Foreign Minister. Attelico has
since enquired of Ciano and been told that Mussolini attaches
no importance to British guarantee to Greece.

SS-Gruppenfiihrer Heydrich to Foreign Minister Ribbantrop

Letter transmitting report on the views expressed by
important Italian personage regarding the dissolution of
Czecho-SIovakia, and German -Italian relations: position of
Reich in Europe felt to be increasingly intolerable for Italy.

The State Secretary to the Embassy in Italy

Informs Ambassador that the question of whether to ask
Rumanian and Greek Governments if they were parties to
British guarantee has been discussed with Attolico, who
stated Mussolini considered such action inexpedient at
present.

Unsigned Foreign Ministry Memorandum

Records conversation between Goring and Mussolini:
German satisfaction over Italy's action in Albania; the
situation in Yugoslavia; Germany to undertake no major
economic activities in South East Europe without con-
sulting Italy; economic and military advantages of dis-
solution of Czecho-SIovakia: strength of the military
position of the Axis.

State Secretary Weizsacker to Ambassador Mackensen

Letter informing him that Ciano has expressed wish for a
meeting with Ribbentrop ; discusses possible date for this.

State Secretary Weizsacker to Ambassador Mackensen

Letter supplementing document No. 208; states Hitler-
Mussolini meeting is in prospect and discusses value of such
exchange of views.



170



171



174



175



178



197



199



203



205



207



207



210



211



214



238



240



247



248



208



209



256



257



ratj



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



XLV



Date



1939

Apr. 18



Apr. 17



Subject



Apr.



19



Apr. 19



Apr.



22



Apr. 24



Apr. 28



Apr. 29



Apr. 29



May 1



May



Unsigned, Memorandum

Records conversation between Goring and Mussolini in
Rome on April 16: discussion of Roosevelt message; Anglo-
Italian relations; possibility of rapprochement with Russia
and Japanese attitude thereto; Axis prospects jn event of
general conflict ; significance of Tunisia and Malta ; relations
with Spain, Turkey, Egypt, the Arabs; economic questions.
Conclusions reached in discussions.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Records telephone conversation with German Ambassador
in Rome who had learned from Ciano Italian intentions
about reply to Roosevelt message.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Has informed the Italian Ambassador that Hitler will
probably include an answer to President Roosevelt in his
speech on April 2S. Attolieo considered German and
Italian replies should be in close accord.

Ambassador Mackensen to State Secretary Weizsacker

Letter in reply to document No. 209 : has no information
about, but would welcome possibility of, a further meeting
between Hitler and Mussolini.

Ambassador Maekensen to State Secretary Weizsacker
Letter transmitting report on Goring's visit to Italy.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Reports a conversation with Ciano about the latter's
recent meeting with the Yugoslav M.F.A., who had sup-
ported increasing rapprochement of Yugoslav foreign policy
to that of Axis, but would not commit himself to definite
date for joining Anti -Comintern' Pact; Yugoslav with-
drawal from League not to be expected at present.

The, State Secretary to the Embassy in Italy

Quotes report from Ambassador in Ankara describing his
conversation with Turkish M.F.A. and recommending un-
equivocal statement by Mussolini to dispel Turkish distrust.
Instructions to inform Ciano.

The Foreign Ministry to the Embassy in Italy

Instructions to induce the Italian Government to
relinquish their claims to the crew of the Soviet ship Kom-
somol, held prisoner in Spain, in favour of the German
Government.

Memorandum by the State Secretary

Italian Ambassador spoke of possibility of Italy exercising
influence on Poland. Weizsacker replied that this did not
seem opportune at present.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Refers to document No. 286 and reports conversation
with Ciano on Turkey's attitude and a possible declaration
by Mussolini.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Refers to document No, 305 {see under Turkey) and
reports action taken. Ciano stated that he had solemnly
declared to Turkish Minister that Italy was pursuing no
designs which could endanger Turkey.





216



236



267



296



237 296



256



280



293



297



303



311



318



361



370



380



395



317 411



XLVI



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



Date

1939

May 3



Subject



Doc. No. Page



May 18



The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry I 318

Reports complaint by Cia.no of statements attributed to j
the German Consul General in Milan about Hitler restoring
the South Tyrol to the Reich.

i
Editors'' Note . r I

Two memoranda, apparently prepared as briels lor
Ribbentrop's conversations with Ciano m Milan on May 6
and 7.



Unsigned Memorandum , .

Subjects discussed at Ribbentrop-Ciano meetmg in Milan
on May 6-7: decision to conclude a German-Italian alliance
immediately; Anglo-Italian and Franco-Italian relations;
Italy's relations with Spain and thB Balkans; Axis policy
towards Bulgaria and Turkey; Italian desinteressement in
Polish question; political relations of the Axis Powers with
USSR.' evacuation of former Austrians from the South
Tyrol; German coal supplies to Italy; German relations with
the Vatican.

May 10 The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Sends details of German coal deliveries to Italy, from
which it emerges that arrears amount to one million tons;
describes unpleasant surprise created in Italy by repeated
failure to maintain deliveries at agreed level.

May 12 The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Reports conversation with Ciano who enquired if he had
any news from Berlin on the results of the meetmg with
Ribbentrop in Milan. Ciano stated points for forthcoming
German-Italian Treaty to which ho attached decisive
importance.

Mav 12 Memorandum by the State Secretary

Conversation with Italian Ambassador who was anxious
to iiavo the German draft of the forthcoming German-
Italian treaty, as no draft had been drawn up in Rome.

May 12 Memorandum by the, Director of the Legal Department

Has handed Italian Ambassador German dratt tor a
German-Italian Pact. Ambassador raised two points: an
historical mention of the Brenner frontier, and an agreement
to respect each other's spheres of interest.

May 13 The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry _

Reports that Mussolini has caused him to be given text
of a telegram dated May 11, which British loreign Office
sent to British Embassy in Rome, containing message sent
to British Ambassador in Berlin. Transmits translation ot
this message.

Mav 13 Memorandum by the Director of the Legal Department

Records two amendments which, at Mussolini s request,
Attolico has proposed for the German draft of the German-
Italian Pact-
Undated Memorandum by the Deputy Director of the Economic Policy
Department
Reviews present position of German-Italian economic
negotiations and suggests replies to be made to Ciano,
should he raise questions about foil in Gorman supplies to
Jtaly liclow Agreed IovpI.



341



411



444



450



3G0 470



369 478



370 479



371



479



377 487



386



503



423 I 557



ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS



XLVII



Date



Subject



1939
May 22



May 23



May 31



May 31



May 31



May 31



June 8



June 10



June 10



Juno 1+



German-Italian Pact of Friendship and Alliance

Germany and Italy undertake to concert their foreign
policies and render each other full political and diplomatic
support in the event of a threat to the vital interests of
either, with full military support in the event of hostilities
■with other Powers. Secret Protocol making provision for
joint commissions for military questions and war economy.

Memorandum by an Official of the Foreign Minister's Secre-
tariat
Notes statements made by Ciano during his Berlin visit
on question of Yugoslavia's foreign policy and on Italy's
relations with Turkey.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Transmits request from Ciano and Mussolini that, during
visit of Yugoslav Prince Regent and M.F.A. to Berlin, latter
should be pressed to state their policy towards Axis without
ambiguity.

The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Conversation with Ciano, who gave detailed account of
Mussolini's first reception of new British Ambassador,

Count Ciano to Foreign Minister Bibbentrop

Letter introducing Count Cavallero, Under Secretary of
State for War, and director of military and economic com-
missions to be set up under the Pact of Friendship and
Alliance. Cavallero entrusted with memorandum prepared
by Mussolini for Hitler, Memorandum rehearses reasons
why present time would not be favourable for Italy to
embark on war, and recommends strategy to be adopted by
Axis Powers when inevitable war with Western Democracies
comes about.

State Secretary Weizsacker to Ambassador Mac/censen

Letter transmitting copy of document No. 451 (see under
U.S.S.E.) in order to inform him of recent outcome of dis-
cussions in Berlin about how to put a spoke in the Anglo-
Russian conversations; Attolico not yet acquainted with
these developments.



The Ambassador in Italy to the Foreign Ministry

Reports Mussolini's views on his conversation
Serrano Sufier in Rome.



with




Dr. Schmidt