President Roosevelt to the British Prime Minister (Churchill)8
363. The following message is received from General Eisenhower:
“In order to insure maximum effect and clearly define Italian position consider it most desirable that joint announcement by Prime Minister and President be made explaining co-belligerent status. Announcement to follow immediately after release of Italian declaration war on Germany. Suggest simultaneous release London and Washington.
[Page 379]“Please say if this recommendation is approved.”
The following is submitted for your consideration as a suitable joint statement from both of us:
“The governments of Great Britain and the United States acknowledge the position of the Italian government as stated by Marshal Badoglio and accept with appreciation the active cooperation of the Italian government and armed forces as a co-belligerent in the war against Germany. The military events since September 8 culminating in the Italian declaration of war against Germany have, in fact, made Italy a co-belligerent and the American and British governments will continue to treat with the Italian government on that basis (add the Soviet government if concurrence is received). The two governments acknowledge the Italian government’s pledge to submit to the will of the Italian people after the Germans have been driven from Italy and emphasize that the relationship which has developed between the government of Italy and the governments of the United Nations is based on the clear understanding that it will not in any way prejudice the military interests of the United Nations or the absolute and un-trammeled right of the people of Italy by constitutional means to decide on the democratic form of government they will eventually have.”
I will await your reply.
- Copy of telegram obtained from the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library, Hyde Park, N.Y.↩