795.00/4–2053: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Bohlen) to the Department of State
priority
1501. Will be guided by Department’s wishes in this matter (Embtel 1491)1 and will merely raise “ostensibly casually” with Voroshilov points set forth in Deptel 780.2 Department will realize that very doubtful if any early opportunity in “general conversation” will arise to make points with Molotov. Foreign Ambassadors normally do not see Soviet Foreign Minister except on specific request or in event that he sends for them. Furthermore, having no questions of any importance to take up with Molotov, should I see him in regard to specific issues such as Soviet wives or Balashova children and even casually introduce Korean truce negotiations, latter would in Soviet eyes become obvious purpose of call. I had assumed from Deptel that Department anxious to have these points made promptly and effectively to Soviet Government in order that they might have some chance of influence Communist position at Panmunjom. It is very doubtful if Voroshilov is fully briefed on specific issues involved in POW matter and most certainly is not Soviet official with final determination in foreign policy.
I assume that Department is aware that Soviet Foreign Minister does not customarily attend ceremony of presentation and according to our information Pushkin will represent Foreign Office. While Pushkin who will be present will presumably report to Molotov, in general in matters of this nature where it is desired to create a distinct impression it is more effective to do it directly with official responsible for decisions in foreign affairs.