661.00/4–2850: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Kirk) to the Secretary of State 1
1250. Embassy grateful Department infotel April 26, 5 a. m. summarizing views expressed by Jessup in discussions preparatory to forthcoming foreign ministers’ meeting and British comments thereon. Embassy’s thinking in this regard was set forth in substance in Embtel 1214, April 25 and in detail in despatch number 514, April 25 referred to therein.2
[Page 1186]Essentially Embassy concurs with Jessup and British but believes minor modifications, principally as to degree of emphasis justified. As to Soviet estimate developments past year we strongly inclined agree with British that Communist successes China more than offset Tito disaffection. On other hand we prefer Jessup’s view that development of West relations with USSR in next two or three years will probably hold more risks of war than previously as contrasted with more complacent British idea that Soviets will not risk action which might result hostilities until ’55 or ’56. As to USSR vulnerabilities, we would caution against placing undue reliance on potential Kremlin difficulties with peoples of USSR on basis suspicion, fear, coercion, etc. Also believe “frustration of Kremlin dynamism” too defensive an approach to winning global struggle for which issues now decisively drawn.