396.1 MO/12–354:Telegram
No. 60
The Chargé in the Soviet Union
(Walmsley) to the Department of
State1
official use only
870. Moscow conference ended this evening with formal signing of joint “declaration” at Kremlin ceremony (see Embtel 8692).
“Declaration” is essentially restatement of Molotov November 29 speech.3 Operative section expresses intention in event Paris agreements are ratified to carry out “joint measures in organization of armed forces and their command,” as well as “other measures” necessary for strengthening defenses and guaranteeing “inviolability of borders,” and also provides for consultation to this end. Western rejection of Paris accords is still presented as precondition for “settlement” of German question and remilitarization of West Germany is said to “exclude possibility” of reunification.
Despite sterility of document as regards Germany, it is further effort to exert propaganda influence, particularly in West Germany, for example (1) in specific reference to possibility of “achievement of agreement” on holding all-German elections in course of 1955, as well as peace treaty, should West reject Paris agreement; (2) in statement noted above, less equivocal than heretofore, that remilitarization of West Germany would “exclude possibility” of agreement on reunification; and (3) in new theme implying unification of Germany is essential to its resuming status as “one of great powers”.
Tone of conference was set by Molotov’s speech, which subsequent speeches followed with undeviating uniformity. It is interesting commentary that four day exercise, of which only last could be [Page 142] called “working” day, produced agreed text of such length it could have been written on first day. Holding of conference before ratification of Paris accords logically prevented significant departures from established line on Germany as well as adoption of definitive new position.
In summary, “declaration” is latest step in campaign to prevent ratification of Paris agreements. Conference was from first obviously designed for this purpose and to serve as warning. Moreover, in event of ratification, conference provides device whereby Soviets may move away from “reunification,” attempting to place onus for division of Germany on West.