376. Telegram From the Embassy in the Soviet Union to the Department of State0
1679. Gromyko summoned me to MFA 12 noon today to inform me of Sov Govt decision, on personal intercession Khrushchev, to expel Barghoorn from USSR, probably today. Action by Sov Govt, Gromyko said reading from prepared statement, was in response deep concern expressed by President. He stressed Barghoorn clearly guilty of espionage as evidenced by documents found on his person and by his own deposition.
Gromyko voiced expectation on behalfSov Govt that US Govt would take steps immediately release Ivanov. Finally, he pointed out if any US official should attempt publicly justify Barghoornʼs conduct and thus cast doubt on Sov action against him Sovs would publish results investigation.
Gromyko said MFA would be in touch later today with Consular Section re details release Barghoorn. In response my inquiry, he confirmed Sovs would make brief announcement of release to press this evening and indicated no objection our doing likewise. Accordingly, Emb plans inform local American correspondents later today, preferably after firm word on release time received. Emb intends limit remarks to press to brief statement Sov Govt had decided release Barghoorn in recognition Presidentʼs expressed concern at his arrest and will decline further comment.
Full text Gromykoʼs statement follows immediately.1