740.0011 European War 1939/7905: Telegram
The Minister in Yugoslavia (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 25—1:02 p.m.]
51. My 50, January 25, noon.14 He15 believed there should be Balkan unity and had done his best to obtain it, but throughout expressed distrust of Bulgaria. He felt sure that Bulgaria would permit passage of German troops, but thought that Donovan’s explanation of our position in Sofia may do some good and make Boris16 hesitate.
He stated flatly Yugoslavia would refuse consent of the passage of German troops and would resist attack. In reply to question as to what this country would do if German troops entered Bulgaria he said, “It is most difficult. I believe we will attack. It encircles us. But my people are not all agreed. The time has come to act on principle, to abandon expediency”.
He still felt that Germany did not wish trouble in the Balkans. After discussion he said that the establishment of a Balkan line was necessary in order finally to defeat Germany.