868.00/12–344: Telegram
The Ambassador in Greece (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 4—11:20 a.m.]
120. My 114, December 2,39 The Communist Ministers duly resigned and this morning EAM attempted a demonstration in Constitution Square. The Government forbade this and when large crowds attempted an entrance the police opened fire and a number of casualties resulted. Some smaller demonstrations took place elsewhere including a peaceful one of several thousand people outside this Embassy cheering President Roosevelt and the United States. In this connection this morning’s Communist Rezospastis featured a reported declaration by Mr. Stettinius to the effect that, “unless important military reasons prevent, the policy of the United States is against any interference in the internal affairs of the countries now being liberated and especially as regards the formation of their governments. This policy has always been a doctrine of the United States and is now [apparent omission]”.40
The British have now brought some tanks into Athens as well as armored cars and their troops are picketing the area around the Prime Minister’s apartment. In the suburbs the ELAS appears in complete control. I drove to Kephissia and saw posts along the road with machine guns pointed towards Athens and armed guerrillas in the village streets.
A general strike has been called for tomorrow. Meanwhile, electric power has already been cut off preventing the Embassy radio transmitter from functioning until an emergency generator can be put into operation possibly tomorrow morning.
The Under Minister for Foreign Affairs41 told me this afternoon that negotiations are in progress with regard to filling the vacated [Page 142] Cabinet posts. Stronger representation from the Eight would appear likely.
Please advise War and Navy Departments.