740.0011 European War 1939/9064: Telegram
The Minister in Yugoslavia ( Lane ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9:35 p.m.]
189. My 188, today.48 Following based on talk with Campbell49 today: Cvetkovic first indicated that nonaggression pact was to be signed with Germany similar to Turk-Bulgarian pact. He said Yugoslavia had definitely refused (1) passage of German troops; (2) use of Yugoslav communications system; and (3) Tripartite Pact with military clause. When Campbell suggested that Yugoslavia should take a positive stand he replied, “Do you want us to attack Germany?” Cvetkovic admitted he had explained to Hitler at Berghof, Yugoslavia’s vital interest in Salonika, but gave no indication whether Government would regard German attack there as casus belli.
On ending interview Campbell asked whether Government had made any decision as to action to be taken. Cvetkovic shrugged shoulders and said, “Decision, no”. Campbell evidently puzzled by inconsistencies of Cvetkovic’s remarks.