140. Telegram From the Embassy in France to the Department of State0
2651. Deptel 2532.1 In discussion with Couve today he sees no difference in principle between our governments that free access to Berlin should be maintained as required on land or in air. Only difference is that they do not believe wise to agree in advance on method of implementation under unknown situation that may appear and which may be dependent on unforeseeable factors. It is his opinion that their position comes out substantially to same point as ours in that quick consultation should take place in any event before final action.
He emphasizes further that three governments should study various contingencies and practical measures to be taken. No indication that airlift is necessarily preferable. He did volunteer that in his judgment situation was even more grave than before Mikoyan visit United States.
Simultaneously Boegner reaffirmed to EmbOff above position. He reiterated that General was determined not to give way in face of Soviet threats.2
Inasmuch as French position is so close to ours, and it would seem about as far as man such as de Gaulle responsible for security of his country will go, it is our opinion further pressure would be fruitless and we would recommend on basis of our knowledge that we refrain from further attempts at persuasion.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 762.0221/1–2059. Secret; Priority.↩
- Document 138.↩
- A more detailed account of Boegner’s statement was transmitted in telegram 2652 from Paris, January 20. (Department of State, Central Files, 762.0221/1–2059)↩