811.42700 (R)/8–1649: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
2058. Re VOA (Embtel 2056, August 16) I referred to interference with our broadcasts as well known fact and pointed out that jamming violates Cairo and Madrid conventions to which both governments are parties. I added that if there were objection to content of broadcasts matter should be handled through diplomatic channels rather than resort to jamming in violation conventions.
Stalin said he was little informed on question and would ask FonMin to answar. With broad smile he asked Vyshinski “is that BBC?” Vyshinski explained I meant VOA. “They abuse us?” Stalin asked. “Very much” Vyshinski replied. Both laughed. Stalin turned to me and said he would ask FonMin to deal with question. Neither he nor Vyshinski challenged my reference to jamming as fact.
It seems to me onus of making next move is now with Vyshinski and I think we should wait for him to make it. If he elects not to [Page 648] initiate further discussion he remains under charge of treaty violation which leaves record in our favor.1
- A marginal notation to this paragraph reads: “I agree FR”. The initials appear to be those of Frederick Reinhardt, the Chief of the Division of Eastern European Affairs.↩