868.01/481: Telegram
The Ambassador to the Greek Government in Exile (MacVeagh) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 1—3:16 p.m.]
Greek 98. My telegram 89, Greek, March 20, 8 p.m.22 Mr. Tsouderos called on me today with reference to the situation created here by the formation of the Political Committee headed by Colonel Bakirjis. He is not worried about developments in Greece since he has had a second message from the Committee couched like the first on conciliatory terms and only urging speed in the negotiations for a government of national unity; and he believes that the Committee not only lacks popular support but is aware of the lack.
He is, however, much concerned about the situation in the Middle East where the Committee’s existence has become widely known, while its character and its demands have been considerably misrepresented. As a result, there is a growing movement among Republican-minded groups particularly in the Armed Forces for recognition of the Committee. This has already been urged upon him by a number of delegations including a group of Army and Air Force officers. He believes that the agitation is being deliberately stirred by the EAM and other elements hostile to the Government and he fears that it may attain considerable if not dangerous proportions.
The King in the meantime has given no further indication of what his final decision on the regency proposal is to be (my telegram No. 88, Greek, March 16, 8 p.m.) but has telegraphed asking for news about the latest developments. Mr. Tsouderos in answer has told him of the situation outlined above, has urged him to hasten his reply and has recommended that he should not for the present at least return to Cairo.
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