762.61114/11–1044: Telegram

The Chargé in the Soviet Union (Kennan) to the Secretary of State

4299. Press for November 9 published despatch datelined Paris November 5 reporting that many Soviet war prisoners and civilians brought to France by Germans have not received rights to which they are entitled as citizens of Allied power and are still held in camps together with German prisoners. Two examples are given of camps in which Soviet prisoners are detained with German prisoners under German camp commandants. In Marseilles area, according to despatch, [Page 1264] terrorist methods are being used in recruiting Soviet citizens for Foreign Legion. Despatch refers to measures being taken by Soviet representatives in France for releasing Soviet citizens from French camps and preparations to send them home. It also states that Soviet Embassy has protested to French Foreign Minister regarding above conditions.

Repeated to Paris as No. 11.

Kennan