740.00119 European War 1939/190: Telegram
The Chargé in Germany (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:10 p.m.]
2460. In spite of the rumors and reports which are circulating regarding peace proposals, there is little indication that these rumors are regarded as of immediate significance here. Recent utterances have denied that importance is being attached to these considerations in German official circles and the proposals for a Christmas truce which the Vatican is believed to have made (see my 2212, December 2, 9 p.m.12) appear to have failed.
There seems to be no reliable evidence of a concurrence of views in the Government as to decisive action in the immediate future and some say that the failure to carry out plans for military action which were regarded as definite at certain dates in the recent past has engendered a state of indecision which prevails at the moment in minds of the highest authorities. It is rumored, however, that after December 27, important conferences will take place looking to some definite action in January. In the meanwhile, the visit which Hitler is reported to be making to the West front at the present time is not regarded as of significance from the standpoint of immediate military plans.
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