765.84/4140: Telegram
The Minister Resident in Ethiopia (Engert) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 19—3:40 p.m.]
225. Unofficial reports are to the effect that an Italian offensive has been launched from the southeast, that Jigjiga has been occupied and that Harrar is about to be taken.
[Page 62]Also that an Italian column is marching from Dessie towards Afdem to cut the railway.
Five remaining Belgian officers in employ of Ethiopian Government left by train tonight as they did not wish to fall into the hands of the Italians.
Meeting of high Government officials this afternoon failed to reach a decision regarding departure (See my 221, April 18, 2 p.m.). Some are now in favor of moving Government to Jimma and later towards Sudan frontier.
No resistance is contemplated in order to avoid bloodshed in or near the capital. The Department may wish to inform Rome of this decision.33
- Telegram repeated to Rome in Department’s telegram No. 34, April 20, 6 p.m.↩