851.33/206: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Leahy) to the Secretary of State
[Received 11 p.m.]
1523. Department’s 898, December 6, 4 p.m.,4 903, December 8 [9], 6 p.m.5 and 908, December 10, 4 p.m. At 6 p.m. conferred with the Marshal for a half hour with Admiral Darlan present and discussed the questions contained in cables referred to above, explaining to the Marshal that America’s formal involvement in war with Axis Powers may change the entire picture from the point of view of the United States.
The Marshal indicated a desire that we continue our economic relief in Africa and directed Admiral Darlan to prepare a memorandum reply to the specific questions contained in Department’s 898, December 6, 4 p.m., his first reaction apparently being that satisfaction could be given to our requests.
In regard to naval ships in French colonial ports in the Western Hemisphere, Admiral Darlan said they have no intention of leaving port and that they are disarmed. In reply to a categorical inquiry he said he will issue instructions to Admiral and will inform me by memorandum in regard thereto.
In reply to a question as to any possible change in the attitude of the French Government toward this Embassy because of the declaration of war against us by Germany and Italy, the Marshal stated that he is most desirous of maintaining the existing understanding [Page 199] friendly relations between our two governments and that no demand has come from the Axis for France to change its attitude. He said, however, “if Germany should make such a demand, they can starve our civilian population and we are helpless.”
He stated France intends to “remain neutral” and if Germany brings pressure to bear toward forcing a change he will endeavor to find means to maintain our recent relations.
It is my personal opinion that no effective effort will be made by the Marshal’s Government in our behalf if Germany should ask that diplomatic relations between France and America be made difficult or interrupted. Such a request by Germany is expected by our friends in the Vichy Government and I believe it is also expected by the Marshal himself.
I told the Marshal that our formal involvement in the war caused by the German-Italian declarations of today5a changes the situation and makes any French assistance hereafter given to the Axis Powers a direct injury to the United States.
Both the Marshal and Darlan were particularly cordial during this interview and both expressed regret that America has become involved in the “World War”.
Repeated to Algiers.