740.00119 EW/4–2945
The American Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kennan) to the Assistant People’s Commissar for Foreign Affairs of the Soviet Union (Vyshinshy)
Dear Mr. Vyshinski: I have been directed to effect transmission of the following message from the President to Marshal Stalin:
“To Marshal Stalin from the President. Personal and Top Secret. “The following is the text of a message I have sent to Prime Minister Churchill:
“‘I suggest, with reference to Marshal Alexander’s Naf 934,54 that the announcement of the local surrender of German armies in Italy to combined Anglo-American forces be made by Alexander at a time that is in his opinion suitable and correct, and that the first announcement be not made elsewhere.
“‘If you agree, please instruct Alexander accordingly.’
(Signed) Truman.”
I would be grateful if you would be good enough to transmit this message to Marshal Stalin.
Sincerely yours,
- Not printed; this message, dated April 29, had reported acceptance of the surrender terms by German plenipotentiaries. Copy obtained from Department of the Army files.↩