Office of the Historian

Moscow Embassy Files—879.6 Berlin Route

No. 533
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Harriman) to the Soviet Assistant Foreign Commissar (Vyshinsky)
No. 383
Moscow, July 7, 1945.

Dear Mr. Vyshinski: I have informed General Eisenhower of our last conversation with regard to the opening up of a civil air lines connection at Berlin between Soviet and American planes. I have suggested that General Eisenhower or his representative discuss this matter with Marshal Zhukov or his representative. I hope that Marshal Zhukov will be informed of the desirability of this connection and authorized to work out the technical details.

I trust that this connection can be established promptly as every day adds to the inconvenience and difficulties of our communications with the United States and other United States Missions in Western [Page 804] Europe. I therefore request your cooperation in the speedy conclusion of arrangements for this service.

Sincerely yours,

W. A. Harriman