Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXIX, Eastern Europe; Eastern Mediterranean, 1969–1972

280. Telegram From the Embassy in Greece to the Department of State¹

Athens, June 10, 1970, 1536Z.

2965. Subject: Pipinelisʼ meeting with King Constantine.

1. At our meeting today Pipinelis gave me a fill-in on his meeting with King Constantine in Rome. He said this was frank and complete account and he requested I respect his confidence.

2. Prior to his departure for Rome Pipinelis had informed Prime Minister Papadopoulos of his intention to see King. He told him he would review agenda of NATO meeting with King and would indicate position of Greek Government on various items on agenda. This was cause of lengthy meeting. Pipinelis commented that he found the King very well informed regarding the various items on the agenda.

3. He then suggested to the King that he seek a meeting with Prime Minister since time ripe for his return to Greece, pointing out to King regime now firmly established, economy booming in extraordinary fashion, and his return important with respect to future stability of country and firmness of timetable for return to parliamentary democracy. In an aside, FonMin told me he greatly concerned that King come back to guarantee that Papadopoulosʼs commitment to return to parliamentary democracy, which he is deeply convinced is sincere, be backed up by King in Greece on throne, since disappearance of Papadopoulos could be catastrophic for future of Greek democracy.

4. King said he eager to meet with PM. In reply to my question why King did not come out publicly for arms aid to Greece, which we knew he favored, FonMin said that King ready and eager to back up arms aid to Greece, but that this must come after a meeting with PM reviewing entire situation but based upon an implementation of the 1968 Constitution.

5. Pipinelis then revealed that meeting between the two almost took place last year but that PM backed out at least minute. During their December meeting last year Pipinelis again suggested to King a meeting with PM. He said he had made clear to King that meeting would not necessarily lead to immediate action. King was also informed of opposition on part of younger, middle grade officers to his return. When asked by King what he should talk about, Pipinelis told King there was nothing regarding his return to talk about since Constitution contains necessary provision regarding return of King.

6. Pipinelis firmly denied any differences with King or any instructions by Papadopoulos in the nature of an ultimatum. He believes hostile press deliberately seeking to drive deeper wedge between King and the regime.

7. In reply to my question as to where a meeting between King and Prime Minister might take place, FonMin said “early aboard some ship, as absolute secrecy must be preserved.”

Tasca

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 593, Country Files—Middle East, Greece, Vol. I Jan 69–Oct 70. Secret; Exdis.