Shofar FTP Archive File: orgs/german/foreign-office/soviet-relations-documents-analytical-list
Archive/File: orgs/german/foreign-office/soviet-relations-documents-analytical
Last-Modified: 1997/10/19
Page IX
ANALYTICAL LIST OF DOCUMENTS
I. TENTATIVE EFFORTS TO IMPROVE GERMAN-SOVIET RELATIONS,
APRIL 17-AUGUST 14, 1939
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Apr. 17 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 1
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Conversation with the Soviet Ambassador
who, after discussing Soviet contracts with
Skoda, suggests the possibility of improved
Soviet-German relations.
May 4 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 2
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
The significance of the replacement of
Litvinov by Molotov.
May 5 Foreign Office Memorandum 3
The Soviet Charge, Astakhov, suggests to
Schnurre the revival of economic negotiations
and stresses the significance of Molotov's
appointment.
May 9 Foreign Office Memorandum 3
Astakhov expresses pleasure at the changed
tone of the German press.
May 17 Foreign Office Memorandum 4
Astakhov is skeptical concerning the
prospects of an Anglo-Soviet agreement, and is
optimistic on the improvement of Soviet-German
relations.
May 20 Memorandum by the German Ambassador in the 5
Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Molotov says the construction of "political
bases" must precede new economic negotiations;
he refuses to elaborate.
May 21 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 7
(Weizsacker)to the German Ambassador in the
Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Schulenburg to take no action.
May 22 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 8
(Schulenburg) to the State Secretary in the
German Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
An analysis of political currents in
Moscow.
May 27 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 9
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Germany hesitates to make advances until
the outcome of the Soviet negotiations with
Britain and France is known.
May 29 Foreign Office Memorandum 11
Arguments for and against negotiations with
the U.S.S.R.
Foreign Office Memorandum
A proposal that Weizsacker explore the
possibility of agreement.
Page X
I. TENTATIVE EFFORTS TO IMPROVE GERMAN SOVIET RELATIONS,
APRIL 17-AUGUST 14, 1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
May 30 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 12
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Both Weizsacker and Astakhov, in
conversation on economic questions, hint that a
German-Soviet political agreement is desirable
and possible.
May 30 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 15
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
A telegraphic summary of the above
conversation; Germany has decided to undertake
negotiations.
May 30 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 17
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg).
Hilger may begin economic negotiations;
political questions are to be referred to
Berlin.
June 5 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 18
(Schulenburg) to the State Secretary in the
German Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Contends that, in the interview of May 20,
Molotov had not rejected a German-Soviet
political agreement; rather, he had almost
invited political discussions.
June 15 Foreign Office Memorandum 20
The Bulgarian Minister reports a
conversation with Astakhov on Soviet foreign
policy.
June 18 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 21
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
The Soviet Government is skeptical of
German sincerity. Enclosure: Mikoyan tells
Hilger that the German reply on economic
negotiations is "not entirely favorable."
June 27 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 24
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stresses the Soviet fear that Germany is
pushing economic negotiations only to block an
Anglo-Soviet agreement and that Germany will
allow the negotiations to lapse when this
objective is achieved.
June 29 Foreign Office Memorandum 25
Hitler orders negotiations with the
U.S.S.R. ended.
June 29 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 26
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
A conversation with Molotov, who, while
still suspicious, shows desire to maintain
contact with Germany.
June 30 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 27
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
No further action is to be taken for the
moment on political or economic negotiation.
Page XI
I. TENTATIVE EFFORTS TO IMPROVE GERMAN SOVIET RELATIONS,
APRIL 17-AUGUST 14, 1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
July 3 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 28
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Details of the conversation of June 28 with
Molotov.
July 12 The Counselor of Embassy of the German Embassy 28
in the Soviet Union (Tippelskirch) to the
German Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
After conversations in Berlin, he concludes
that there is no definite political opinion on
the problem of negotiations with the U.S.S.R.
July 22 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 30
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
The Soviet press announces the opening of
economic negotiations.
July 27 Foreign Office Memorandum 32
Schnurre, in conversation with Astakhov and
Babarin, explores problems of German-Soviet
relations.
July 29 The German Foreign Office to the German 36
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Schulenburg is to discover Molotov's views
on the above conversation, and, if Molotov
abandons his reserve, to state that Germany is
prepared to respect Soviet interests in Poland
and the Baltic States.
Aug. 3 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 37
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Schnurre will tell Astakhov that Germany is
ready for more concrete discussions.
Aug. 3 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 37
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Germany must know whether or not the
U.S.S.R. is prepared to settle all problems, so
that German policy can be adjusted to meet the
Soviet position.
Aug. 4 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 39
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov, abandoning reserve, expresses hope
for improved relations, but says that proofs of
a changed German attitude are lacking.
Aug. 7 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 42
(Schulenburg) to Counselor of Legation
Schliep of the German Foreign Office
Schulenburg comments privately on British
and French negotiations with the U.S.S.R., on
Soviet mistrust of Germany, and on current
gossip in Moscow.
Aug. 10 Foreign Office Memorandum 44
Schnurre warns Astakhov that Soviet
interests in Poland can be protected only by a
German-Soviet agreement concluded before the
outbreak of war; Astakhov says the negotiations
with Britain were begun by the Soviets without
enthusiasm, and only as protection against
Germany.
Page XII
I. TENTATIVE EFFORTS TO IMPROVE GERMAN SOVIET RELATIONS,
APRIL 17-AUGUST 14, 1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 14 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 46
(Schulenburg) to the State Secretary in the
German Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Reviews the situation in Moscow to justify
his belief that haste should be avoided.
Aug. 14 The German Foreign Office to the German 48
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
In accordance with instructions, Astakhov
tells Schnurre that the Soviet Government wishes
to discuss each group of questions, by stages.
II. AGREEMENT ACHIEVED, AUGUST 14-AUGUST 23, 1939
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 14 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 50
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Schulenburg to tell Molotov that
ideological differences do not exclude friendly
cooperation; that all questions from the Baltic
to the Balkans can be settled; that the western
democracies are the natural enemies of both
Germany and the U.S.S.R.; that, since war may
come soon, immediate clarification of relations
is desirable; that Ribbentrop is prepared to
come to Moscow to negotiate.
Aug. 16 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 52
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
On August 15, Molotov says he is now
convinced of German sincerity, but believes
adequate preparation should precede Ribbentrop's
visit; he inquires about German views on a non-
aggression pact and on territorial questions.
Aug. 16 Memorandum by the German Ambassador in the 53
Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
A detailed account of the above
conversation.
Aug. 16 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 57
(Schulenburg) to the State Secretary in the
German Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Schulenburg stresses the candor and the
willingness to negotiate shown by Molotov on
August 15.
Aug. 16 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 58
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov that Germany
is ready to conclude a non-aggression pact, to
guarantee jointly the Baltic States, and to work
for improved relations between Japan and the
U.S.S.R. The need for haste is to be stressed,
Ribbentrop is ready to come to Moscow at any
time after August 18 with full powers from
Hitler.
Aug. 18 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 59
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Schulenburg reads Ribbentrop's offer of
August 16; Molotov reads the Soviet reply to the
German proposals of August 15, stressing the
earlier Soviet fear of German aggression, the
willingness of the U.S.S.R. to conclude a
political agreement after the economic agreement
had been signed, and the need for thorough
preparation before the proposed visit of
Ribbentrop.
Page XIII
II. AGREEMENT ACHIEVED, AUGUST 14-AUGUST 23, 1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 18 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 61
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov immediately
that speed is essential since hostilities may
begin any day; to read him the text for the non-
aggression treaty proposed by Germany, and to
state that Ribbentrop will be empowered to sign
a protocol defining spheres of influence.
Aug. 19 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 63
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov agrees to visit of Ribbentrop on
August 26 or 27 and submits the draft for a non-
aggression pact.
Aug. 19 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 64
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
In the first of two interviews Molotov
insists on the need for thorough preparation for
Ribbentrop's visit, within a half hour
Schulenburg is requested to call on Molotov
again, in the second interview Molotov gives the
draft of a non-aggression pact and consents to
visit of Ribbentrop on August 26 or 27,
Schulenburg assumes that the changed attitude of
Molotov is explained by Stalin's intervention.
Aug. 19 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 65
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Gives the terms of the non-aggression pact
proposed by the Soviet Government.
Aug. 20 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 66
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Encloses a letter from Hitler to Stalin
accepting the Soviet draft non-aggression pact,
expressing the belief that agreement on the
supplementary protocol can be speedily reached
only if a responsible German official comes to
Moscow, urging that the imminence of war makes
speed essential, and requesting that Stalin
receive Ribbentrop not later than August 23.
Aug. 21 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 67
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Stresses importance of his visit.
Aug. 21 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 67
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Hitler's message delivered to Molotov and
necessity for haste emphasized.
Aug. 21 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 68
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin's answer is conciliatory; he agrees
to the arrival of Ribbentrop on August 23.
Aug. 21 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 69
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
The text of Stalin's reply to Hitler.
Aug. 22 Full Powers to the Reich Foreign Minister, Herr 69
Joachim von Ribbentrop
Full powers from Hitler to Ribbentrop.
Page XIV
II. AGREEMENT ACHIEVED, AUGUST 14-AUGUST 23, 1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 22 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 70
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Japanese Ambassador expresses
uneasiness concerning the probable repercussions
of a German-Soviet pact in Japan; Weizsacker
maintains that the pact was made necessary by
the refusal of Japan to conclude a firm
alliance.
Aug. 23 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Foreign 71
Office
Requests Hitler's consent to placing Libau
and Windau in Soviet sphere of influence.
Aug. 23 The German Foreign Office to the Reich Foreign 72
Minister
Hitler agrees to above.
Aug. 24 Memorandum of a Conversation Held on the Night 72
of August 23d to 24th, Between the Reich
Foreign Minister on the One Hand, and Herr
Stalin and the Chairman of the Council of
People's Commissars Molotov, on the Other
Hand
Discussion of Soviet relations with Japan,
the aspirations of Italy in the Balkans, the
strength and weakness of Britain and France, the
Anti-Comintern Pact, and the natural sympathy
between the German people and the peoples of the
U.S.S.R.; toasts at the conclusion of the
discussion.
Aug. 23 Treaty of Non-aggression Between Germany and the 76
Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
Each government pledges itself not to
attack, not to support attack against, and not
to join any grouping of powers directed against,
the other contracting party; each promises to
consult the other on all questions of common
interest.
Aug. 23 Secret Additional Protocol 78
The Northern boundary of Lithuania to be
the boundary between the German and Soviet
spheres of influence, this boundary in Poland to
be the line of the rivers Narew, Vistula, San,
whether there is to be an independent Poland
will be determined later by friendly agreement;
in Southeastern Europe, Germany declares her
political disinterestedness in those areas,
while the interest of the U.S.S.R. in Bessarabia
is affirmed.
III. THE PACT EXECUTED AND AMENDED, AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 28,
1939
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 23 The Reich Finance Minister (Schwerin-Krosigk) to 79
the Reich Foreign Minister
Ciano says that despite the German-Soviet
pact, Britain and France will fight and that the
Axis is not prepared for the war of attrition
which would ensue; Schwerin-Krosigk says Hitler
did not believe there would be a war with
Britain and France, Ciano replies that he is
aware of that, but he believes Hitler is wrong.
Page XV
III. THE PACT EXECUTED AND AMENDED, AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 28,
1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Aug. 25 Letter from Hitler to Mussolini 80
Hitler maintains that the refusal of Japan
to conclude a general alliance and the
unbearable provocations of Poland necessitated
the pact with the U.S.S.R.; now, in case of war
the favorable attitude of the U.S.S.R. is
assured, Rumania cannot intervene, and Turkey
must revise her position; war may come any hour.
Aug. 25 Letter from Mussolini to Hitler 82
Mussolini approves the German-Soviet pact;
he understands the German position regarding
Poland, if Germany attacks, and the allies of
Poland counterattack, Italy can intervene only
if Germany supplies arms and raw materials.
Aug. 29 Foreign Office Memorandum 83
By the German-Soviet Trade Agreement of
August 19, Germany will export machines, machine
tools, and munitions to the U.S.S.R., receiving
raw materials in exchange, particularly lumber,
cotton, feed grain, oil cake, phosphate,
platinum, raw furs, and petroleum.
Sept. 2 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 85
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
After consultation with Stalin, Molotov
says Soviet relations with Turkey are good, and
that the Soviet Government is prepared to work
for permanent Turkish neutrality as Germany
desires.
Sept. 3 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 86
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Expects decisive defeat of Polish Army in a
few weeks, instructions to suggest to Molotov
the advisability at proper time of military
occupation of Soviet sphere of influence.
Sept. 5 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 87
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov deprecates premature occupation of
Soviet sphere.
Sept. 5 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 87
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says the Soviet Government is using
its considerable influence with Turkey in the
sense desired by Germany.
Sept. 6 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 88
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
The sudden shift of Soviet policy toward
Germany is reflected in the completely changed
tone of organs of public opinion; the population
is still bewildered by the shift and fearful of
war, but the Soviet Government has a ways
previously been able to direct popular
attitudes.
Sept. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 89
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov extends congratulations on the
entry of German troops into Warsaw.
Page XVI
III. THE PACT EXECUTED AND AMENDED, AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 28,
1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Sept. 9 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 89
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to suggest again to Molotov
the need for information on Soviet military
intentions in Poland.
Sept. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 90
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says that Soviet military action
will take place in the next few days.
Sept. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 90
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Describes Soviet military preparations.
Sept. 10 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 91
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says the Soviet Government was not
prepared for the swift German victory, the Red
Army is not vet ready to advance; the Soviet
Government, to avoid the appearance of
aggression, would justify its military action by
saying that Ukrainians and White Russians were
threatened by Germany.
Sept. 13 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 92
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Denies rumors of an armistice between
Germany and Poland.
Sept. 14 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 92
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov wishes to know when Warsaw will
fall so that he may say Poland has collapsed and
Russian minorities require protection.
Sept. 15 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 93
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Warsaw is expected to fall in the next few
days; suggests the text for a joint German-
Soviet communiqu‚, states that the justification
for Soviet military action suggested by Molotov
would expose the two states as enemies before
the whole world.
Sept. 16 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 95
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says Soviet military action is
imminent, he sees no reason for a joint
communiqu‚; he requests that Germany accept the
proposed justification of Soviet action in view
of the difficult position of the Soviet
Government.
Sept. 17 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 96
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin says the Red Army will cross the
frontier today, he alters the text of the note
to be handed the Polish Ambassador so that it is
satisfactory to Germany.
Sept. 17 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 97
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin says that an assistance pact with Turkey
is being negotiated; he believes the pact
advantageous since it would insure Turkish
neutrality.
Page XVII
III. THE PACT EXECUTED AND AMENDED, AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 28,
1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Sept. 18 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 97
Foreign Office ( Weizsacker)
Ribbentrop should discuss the proposed
Turkish-Soviet agreement with the Italians; we
should concur only if the U.S.S.R. is not
obligated to action against Germany, Italy, and
Bulgaria.
Sept. 18 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 98
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin doubts if German High Command will
withdraw to agreed line; Schulenburg requests
authority to remove his doubts.
Sept. 18 Memorandum by Counselor of Legation Hilger of 98
the German Embassy in the Soviet Union
Describes revision by Stalin of communiqu‚
proposed by Germany, Stalin considered the
German version too frank; German draft and
Stalin's draft are appended.
Sept. 19 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 101
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Stalin that German
agreements with the U.S.S.R. will be kept, they
are the foundation of friendly relations between
Germany and the U.S.S.R.
Sept. 20 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 101
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov proposes negotiations in Moscow for
a definitive Polish settlement.
Sept. 23 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 102
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Willingness to come to Moscow to effect a
definitive Polish settlement.
Sept. 25 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 102
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin proposes that Germany waive claim to
Lithuania in return for a larger part of Polish
territory, Stalin requests assent to immediate
solution of the problem of the Baltic countries.
Sept. 27 The German Foreign Office to the German Embassy 103
in the Soviet Union
The U.S.S.R. has demanded an alliance with
Estonia, and naval and air bases.
Sept. 27 The German Foreign Office to the German Embassy 104
in the Soviet Union
The Finnish Foreign Minister states that
Finland will never accept demands such as the
U.S.S.R. has imposed on Estonia.
Sept. 27 The German Foreign Office to the German Embassy 104
in the Soviet Union
The Estonian Government will negotiate in
Moscow; they will seek a reduction of Soviet
demands.
Page XVIII
III. THE PACT EXECUTED AND AMENDED, AUGUST 23-SEPTEMBER 28,
1939-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Sept. 27- Timetable of Ribbentrop's Second Visit to Moscow 105
29
Sept. 28 German-Soviet Boundary and Friendship Treaty 105
The text of the public treaty defining
boundaries in the territory of Poland;
interference by third powers will be rejected.
Sept. 28 Confidential Protocol 106
Providing for exchange of nationals
residing within the territories under the
jurisdiction of the two powers.
Sept. 28 Secret Supplementary Protocol 107
Lithuania, except for territory in the
southwest, is within the Russian sphere of
influence; the province of Lublin and parts of
the province of Warsaw are in the German sphere;
economic agreements between Lithuania and
Germany will not be affected by Soviet action.
Sept. 28 Secret Supplementary Protocol 107
Both Germany and the U.S.S.R. will suppress
any Polish agitation.
Sept. 28 Declaration of the Government of the German 108
Reich and the Government of the U.S.S.R. of
September 28, 1939
Affirming that peace should be restored in
Europe now that the Polish problem is
definitively settled.
Sept. 28 The Reich Foreign Minister to the Chairman of 108
the Council of People's Commissars of the
Soviet Union (Molotov)
An agreement to begin negotiations for a
new trade treaty.
Sept. 28 The Reich Foreign Minister to the Chairman o~ 109
the Council of People's Commissars of the
Soviet Union (Molotov)
Confirming a Soviet promise to facilitate
German transit traffic through the U.S.S.R.,
with Rumania, Iran, Afghanistan, and the Far
East, confirming also a Soviet agreement on the
delivery of oil.
IV. GERMAN-SOVIET COOPERATION, OCTOBER 2, 1939-MAY 29, 1940
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Oct. 2 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 110
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to suggest once more to
Molotov the desirability of Soviet pressure to
prevent the alliance of Turkey with Britain and
France.
Oct. 2 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 110
Ambassador in Turkey (Papen)
Instructions to use every effort to prevent
the alliance of Turkey with Britain and France.
Page XIX
IV. GERMAN-SOVIET COOPERATION, OCTOBER 2, 1939-MAY 29, 1940-
Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Oct. 2 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 111
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Finnish Minister asks what significance
the German-Soviet agreements have for Finland.
Weizsacker replies that Germany wishes friendly
relations with Finland.
Oct. 3 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 112
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says he intends to tell the
Lithuanian Foreign Minister that the U.S.S.R. is
willing to give Vilna to Lithuania and also that
Lithuania must cede a portion of its territory
to Germany. Schulenburg fears this will make
Germany appear a "robber" while the U.S.S.R.
appears a donor.
Oct. 3 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 113
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says the U.S.S.R. is using its
influence with Turkey in the desired direction.
Oct. 4 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 113
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to request Molotov not to
speak of the strip of Lithuanian territory.
Oct. 5 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 114
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says that he had already told the
Lithuanians of the territory which must go to
Germany, that the Lithuanians had been dismayed
by the news, and that Stalin requests Germany
not to insist on cession at this time.
Oct. 5 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 115
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
The German Minister to Lithuania is to
state that, in the negotiations at Moscow,
Germany recommended the cession of Vilna to
Lithuania, and reserved the right to a small
strip of Lithuanian territory, he is to say that
the Reich Government does not wish to raise the
latter question at this time.
Oct. 5 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 116
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Lithuanian Minister expresses
satisfaction with the German explanation, as
given above.
Oct. 7 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 117
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to emphasize to Molotov that
if the U.S.S.R. concludes an assistance pact
with Turkey, any obligation to give assistance
against Germany must be expressly and publicly
excluded; otherwise the confidence of the German
people in the German-Soviet agreements will be
shaken.
Oct. 8 The Chairman of the Council of People's 118
Commissars of the Soviet Union (Molotov) to
the German Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
If Soviet troops are stationed in
Lithuania, they will not occupy the strip
reserved for Germany; Germany will determine
when the agreement concerning this territory is
to be implemented.
Page XX
IV. GERMAN-SOVIET COOPERATION, OCTOBER 2, 1939-MAY 29, 1940-
Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Oct. ? Foreign Office Memorandum 119
Schnurre is to seek increased deliveries of
raw materials by and through the U.S.S.R.
Oct. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 120
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov does not believe an assistance pact
will be concluded with Turkey, the aim of the
Soviet Government is to secure the full
neutrality of Turkey.
Oct. 9 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 121
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Finnish Government wishes to know
whether Germany is indifferent to the Soviet
advance in the Baltic.
Oct. 9 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 122
(Weizsacker) to the German Minister in
Finland (Blcher)
Germany is not in a position to intervene
in the Soviet-Finnish conversations.
Oct. 9 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 123
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Swedish Minister expresses uneasiness
concerning possible Soviet demands on Finland;
Weizsacker replies that Germany claims no
interests there.
Oct. 10 The German Minister in Finland (Blcher) to the 123
German Foreign Office
Because of her economic interests, Germany
should ask the U. S. S. R. to lessen her demands
on Finland.
Oct. 12 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 124
Foreign Office ( Weizsacker)
The Bulgarian Minister states that
Molotov's offer to conclude a mutual assistance
pact has been rejected.
Oct. 18 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 124
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
In a speech soon to be delivered on foreign
affairs, Ribbentrop wishes to refute the British
claim that in Moscow he had asked for, and had
been refused, Soviet military assistance the
text of this portion of the speech is given; it
includes a direct quotation of Stalin on the
Soviet need for a strong Germany, and on the
parallel interests of Germany and the U.S.S.R.
in case of war between Germany and the Western
democracies.
Oct. 19 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 126
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin approves the account of the
negotiations in Moscow; he requests a
modification of the direct quotation so that the
community of Soviet-German interests is
exclusively related to the need for a strong
Germany.
Nov. 1 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 127
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Goring, Raeder, and Keitel complain of the
war materials demands of the Russian delegation
in Berlin.
Page XXI
IV. GERMAN-SOVIET COOPERATION, OCTOBER 2, 1939-MAY 29, 1940-
Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1939
Dec. 2 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 127
(Weizsacker) to German Missions Abroad
In conversations regarding the Finnish-
Russian conflict avoid any anti-Soviet note;
rather, justify the Soviet action.
Dec. 5 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 128
Foreign Office ( Weizsacker)
Keitel complains of friction along the
Soviet frontier, particularly in connection with
the expulsion of Jews into Soviet territory.
Dec. 5 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 128
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Keitel again complains that Soviet demands
for the delivery of German products are
increasingly voluminous and unreasonable; the
Foreign Office intends to curb the Soviet
demands.
Dec. 6 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 129
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
German missions abroad have again been
instructed to support the Soviet point of view
in the Finnish conflict.
Dec. 11 Memorandum by the Reich Foreign Minister 130
In conversations with the Soviet
Ambassador, he protests and refutes the Tass
report of German delivery of munitions to
Finland; he also intimates that Soviet demands
for military supplies are excessive.
1940
Feb. 26 Foreign Office Memorandum-Memorandum on the
German-Soviet Commercial Agreement Signed 131
on February 11, 1940
Schnurre summarizes the promised deliveries
of Soviet raw materials and emphasizes the
sacrifices these deliveries will entail for the
U.S.S.R.; he tells of difficulties which were
surmounted in the negotiation of the agreement,
and of those which may arise in its execution,
he concludes that the Soviet deliveries, and the
transit facilities through the U.S.S.R., will
decisively weaken the effects of the British
blockade.
Mar. 28 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 134
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Ribbentrop suggests that Molotov and, if
possible, Stalin visit Berlin.
Mar. 30 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 135
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Schulenburg does not believe Molotov or
Stalin will visit Berlin; they are determined to
preserve Soviet neutrality and a visit to Berlin
might precipitate a breach of diplomatic
relations or even war with the Western powers.
Apr. 3 The German Foreign Office to the German 137
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
The idea of a visit to Berlin is dropped
for the present.
Apr. 7 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 137
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Notification of, and justification for, the
German invasion of Norway and Denmark, to be
presented to Molotov on April 9.
Page XXII
IV. GERMAN-SOVIET COOPERATION, OCTOBER 2, 1939-MAY 29, 1940-
Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Apr. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 138
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov notified of invasion; he declares
that the Soviet Government understands the
German action, and wishes Germany complete
success in her defensive measures.
Apr. 11 Memorandum by the German Ambassador in the 138
Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
For some time the attitude of the Soviet
Government towards Germany had become
increasingly aloof; with the invasion of Norway,
that attitude suddenly became most friendly,
Schulenburg believes that the Soviet Government
had feared war with the Western powers, and that
the German invasion of Norway relieved these
fears.
Apr. 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 140
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov urges that the continued neutrality
of Sweden is in the interests both of Germany
and of the U.S.S.R.
Apr. 15 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 141
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Germany is determined to respect Swedish
neutrality.
May 7 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 141
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
On May 10, Molotov is to be notified of the
invasion of the Netherlands, Belgium, and
Luxembourg.
May 10 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 142
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
On notification of the invasion, Molotov
says he understands the German action and has no
doubt of its success.
May 29 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 142
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
The report that the Soviet Government has
agreed to the sending of Cripps is credible, but
there is no reason to doubt the loyalty of the
U.S.S.R. toward Germany.
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
June 4 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 144
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov wishes to know if Mackensen's
statement that Balkan problems are to be solved
by cooperation among Germany, the U.S.S.R., and
Italy reflects the opinion of the German and
Italian Governments.
June 6 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 144
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
It is clear that Molotov hopes Mackensen's
statement represents the official view.
Page XXIII
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
June 8 The German Foreign Office to the Representative 145
of the German Foreign Office With the Reich
Protector of Bohemia and Moravia
No political activities are to be carried
on by Ukrainian organizations in Greater
Germany.
June 11 Foreign Office Memorandum 146
The Lithuanian Minister tells of the
increasing Soviet pressure on Lithuania.
June 14 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 147
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Instructions to discuss tactfully with
Molotov the hostile attitude of Minister
Kollontay toward Germany.
June 16 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 148
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Mackensen says that he only expressed the
hope that the Balkans would remain quiet; the
German attitude was established in the Moscow
agreement.
June 16 The German Foreign Office to the Reich Foreign 148
Minister
Tells of Lithuanians seeking refuge in
Germany; requests instructions.
June 16 Foreign Office Memorandum 149
High Command requests instructions
regarding Lithuanian troops which may seek to
cross the frontier.
June 16 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Foreign 150
Office
Border crossings by Lithuanians are to be
permitted but not encouraged; troops are to be
disarmed and interned.
June 16 Foreign Office Memorandum 151
Hitler has ordered disarming of Lithuanian
troops who cross border; German troops returning
to garrisons in East Prussia are to avoid
notice.
June 16 The Reich Foreign Minister's Personal Staff to 151
the German Foreign Office
Ribbentrop wishes to know at once if Baltic
States are tending to seek German support, or
are forming a bloc.
June 17 The German Foreign Office to the Reich Foreign 152
Minister
Reviews cooperation between Baltic States,
and concludes there is little; there is no
political dependence on Germany but close
economic relations exist, an attached memorandum
by Schnurre details the economic importance of
the Baltic States for Germany.
June 17 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 153
(Weizsacker) to All German Missions
Events in the Baltic States concern only
those states and the U.S.S.R.; avoid any
partisan statement.
Page XXIV
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
June 18 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 154
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
After expressing warmest congratulations on
the German military successes, Molotov said
Soviet action in the Baltic States was necessary
to end British and French intrigue; Dekanosov,
Vishinsky, and Zhdanov had been sent to
negotiate the formation of new governments.
June 23 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 155
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov says that a solution of the
Bessarabian question can no longer be delayed,
and that the Soviet claim extends to Bucovina.
June 24 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 156
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Sends a Tass report denying that German-
Soviet relations have deteriorated.
June 24 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 157
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Believes Stalin is the author of the Tass
report, and that the report is preparation for
the solution of the Bessarabian problem.
June 24 Memorandum by the Reich Foreign Minister for 157
Hitler
Gives the text of the Secret Protocol of
August 23, 1939, at the time, he stated orally
German disinterestedness in Bessarabia: he
recalls that Hitler had authorized him, if
necessary to declare German disinterestedness as
far as the Straits.
June 25 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 158
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov that Germany
has no interest in Bessarabia, that Bucovina is
a new question in which Germany is interested
because of the dense German population; that the
economic needs of Germany require peace in the
Balkans, and that Germany is ready to advise
Rumania to reach a peaceful settlement.
June 26 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 159
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Tells Molotov of Ribbentrop's views,
Schulenburg has the impression that the claim to
Bucovina may be dropped.
June 26 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 160
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
In conversation with the Italian
Ambassador, Molotov outlines a possible
agreement on the Balkans, and says the Soviet
Government will recognize Italian hegemony in
the Mediterranean if Italy recognizes Soviet
hegemony in the Black Sea.
June 26 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 161
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that the Soviet demand will
be limited to northern Bucovina, and adds that
he expects German support for this demand.
Page XXV
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
June 27 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 163
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that he has presented to the
Rumanian Minister the Soviet demand for
Bessarabia and northern Bucovina.
June 27 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Foreign 163
Office
Ribbentrop says Rumania is to be advised to
yield; this advice is telephoned to Bucharest.
July 11 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 164
(Schulenburg) to the State Secretary in the
German Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Diplomats in Moscow attribute the recent
diplomatic activity of the U.S.S.R. to a
conviction that the war will soon end; further
moves are expected in the Baltic states, Turkey,
and Iran.
July 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 166
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that Stalin acknowledges the
obligation to cede the strip of Lithuanian
territory, but hopes Germany will not insist on
the cession.
July 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 166
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
On instructions from Stalin, Molotov gives
Schulenburg a memorandum summarizing a
conversation between Stalin and Cripps, in which
Stalin rebuffed all efforts to separate the
U.S.S.R. from Germany.
July 22 Foreign Office Memorandum 168
The Lithuanian Minister hands Woermann a
strong letter of protest against Soviet
activities in Lithuania, which are described in
detail; Woermann consents to ask if Ribbentrop
will receive the letter.
July 22 Foreign Office Memorandum 171
The Latvian Minister presents a similar
letter of protest.
July 24 Foreign Office Memorandum 172
Woermann returns the above letters, and
refuses to accept a similar letter from the
Estonian Minister.
July 29 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 173
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov requests information on the recent
discussions of Germany and Italy with Balkan
statesmen; Schulenburg replies that he will
request information.
July 30 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 173
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov the
conversations resulted from German advice that
Rumania negotiate directly concerning the
demands of Hungary and Bulgaria for territorial
revision.
Page XXVI
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Aug. 2 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 174
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to inform Molotov that Germany
wishes to know what is offered as compensation
before considering the Soviet request concerning
the strip of Lithuanian territory.
Aug. 6 Memorandum by the Reich Foreign Minister on the 175
Reception of the Soviet Ambassador
Ribbentrop protests strongly against an
article entitled "German Communists Against
Dictate at Compiegne" which appeared in a Riga
newspaper.
Aug. 9 The German Foreign Office to the German Embassy 175
in the Soviet Union and the German Legation
in Lithuania
The facilities granted Lithuania in the
Memel Free Port will be discontinued; they would
lead to politically dangerous Soviet privileges
on German territory.
Aug. 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 176
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov proposes financial compensation for
the strip of Lithuanian territory.
Aug. 14 Memorandum by the Reich Foreign Minister 177
The Soviet Ambassador says that the
newspaper article, against which Ribbentrop
protested on August 6, appeared as a result of a
misunderstanding which will not be repeated.
Aug. 30 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 177
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov submits a protest against the
denial of the rights of the Lithuanian Soviet
Republic in the Memel Free Port Zone.
Aug. 31 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 178
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to inform Molotov that, by the
Vienna Award Germany and Italy have effected a
peaceful settlement of the territorial claims of
Hungary against Rumania; that Bulgarian claims
against Rumania are being settled by direct
negotiations; that Germany and Italy have
guaranteed the territory of Rumania within the
new frontiers; and that Germany assumes the
Soviet Government will welcome this contribution
to peace.
Sept. 1 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov receives the news of the Vienna
Award with reserve, and points out that the
U.S.S.R. had not been consulted as required in
questions of interest to both countries by
article 3 of the Treaty of Non-aggression.
Page XXVII
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Sept. 3 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 181
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to inform Molotov in writing
that, since Soviet interests had been satisfied
by the cession of Bessarabia, there were no
common interests and therefore no obligation to
consult; that the Soviet Government had given no
notice, or only perfunctory notice, before
acting in the Baltic and in Bessarabia; and
that, without notice, the U.S.S.R. had taken the
part of Lithuania promised to Germany.
Sept. 4 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 183
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Suggests modifications in statement to be
given to Molotov.
Sept. 5 The German Foreign Office to the German 185
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Soviet Government to be thanked for use of
the base on the Murman Coast, which the German
Navy no longer needs.
Sept. 6 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 185
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Approves minor changes in statement to be
given to Molotov.
Sept. 10 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 187
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
On receipt of statement, Molotov says that
a written reply will be given, and maintains
that the German actions were not entirely loyal
since the U.S.S.R. is obviously interested in
Rumania and Hungary.
Sept. 10 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 188
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov notes with interest the German
willingness to surrender, for a suitable
compensation, its territorial claim in
Lithuania.
Sept. 16 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 188
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov casually, on
September 21, that German troops are being moved
to northern Norway through Finland.
Sept. 16 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 189
Minister in Finland (Blcher)
Instructions to inform the Finnish Foreign
Secretary on September 21 that notice of the
troop movements has been given in Moscow.
Sept. 21 Memorandum by the German Ambassador in the 189
Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
In delivering the aide-m‚moire below,
Molotov repeatedly emphasized that article 3 of
the Treaty of Non-aggression could be annulled
if it was not satisfactory to Germany.
Page XXVIII
V. FRICTION IN THE BALTIC AND BALKANS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 21,
1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Sept. 21 The People's Commissariat of Foreign Affairs of 190
the Soviet Union to the German Embassy in
the Soviet Union
Aide-m‚moire (enclosure to the above)
stating that the U.S.S.R. has interests in
Hungary and Rumania, that the U.S.S.R. should
therefore have been consulted, and that the
Soviet Government is prepared to annul or modify
article 3 if Germany so desires.
VI. THE U.S.S.R. AND THE THREE POWER PACT, SEPTEMBER 25-
NOVEMBER 26, 1940
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Sept. 25 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Embassy 195
in the Soviet Union
Instructions to tell Molotov that
warmongering agitation in America has resulted
in a military alliance between Germany Italy,
and Japan, which is in no way directed against
the U.S.S.R.; and to say that a letter will soon
be sent to Stalin inviting Molotov to Berlin.
Sept. 26 Foreign Office Memorandum 196
Schnurre states that German deliveries of
military supplies to the U.S.S.R. are lagging
and that as a result the suspension of Soviet
deliveries may be expected; Hitler must decide
whether German deliveries to the U.S.S.R. are to
have a priority.
Sept. 27 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 197
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov on hearing of the Three Power Pact,
requests the text, including any secret clauses;
he also requests the text of the agreement
permitting transit of German troops through
Finland, he expresses satisfaction at the
promise of a letter to Stalin and of an
invitation to Berlin.
Sept. 28 Foreign Office Memorandum 199
Schnurre reviews the lag in German
deliveries to Russia, and stresses the serious
consequences for the German economy, if Soviet
deliveries should be suspended.
Oct. 2 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Embassy 201
in the Soviet Union
Instructions to give Molotov the text of
the agreement with Finland; and to tell him that
the complete text of the Three Power Pact has
been published, and that, since the Pact was not
directed against the U.S.S.R., there was no
obligation to consult.
Oct. 4 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 203
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov requests further information on the
movement of German troops through Finland, and
says he will study the German views on the Three
Power Pact.
Oct. 8 Foreign Office Memorandum 205
Germany must intervene to prevent the
U.S.S.R. from gaining control over the Petsamo
nickel concession.
Page XXIX
VI. THE U.S.S.R. AND THE THREE POWER PACT, SEPTEMBER 25-
NOVEMBER 26, 1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Oct. 9 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German Embassy 206
in the Soviet Union
Casually inform Molotov that rumors of the
military occupation of Rumania by German troops
are false; only a German military mission, with
certain instruction units, has been sent at the
request of the Rumanian government.
Oct. 10 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 206
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov listens with interest to news of
the German military mission in Rumania.
Oct. 13 Letter from the Reich Foreign Minister to Stalin 207
Reviews events since his visit to Moscow in
August 1939 points out the gains which have
resulted for both parties from the German-Soviet
pact, intimates the desirability of more
intimate relations between the U.S.S.R. and the
members of the Three Power Pact; and suggests
that Molotov visit Berlin to formulate a common
policy.
Oct. 18 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 214
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Reports that he has given Molotov the
letter to Stalin.
Oct. 18 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 214
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Requests reason for delivery of the letter
to Molotov rather than to Stalin.
Oct. 19 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 215
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov would have been annoyed at an
attempt to give the letter to Stalin, and Stalin
would have avoided a personal meeting since he
has recently shown a strong reserve in public.
Oct. 22 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 216
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Stalin thanks Ribbentrop for his
instructive analysis of recent events, and
agrees that a further improvement of relations
is possible; Molotov accepts Ribbentrop's
invitation.
Nov. 2 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 217
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
For the first time, Mikoyan mentions German
delivery of arms to Finland.
Nov. 12 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the Reich 217
Foreign Minister and the Chairman of the
Council of People's Commissars of the
U.S.S.R. and People's Commissar for Foreign
Affairs, V. M. Molotov, in the Presence of
the Deputy People's Commissar for Foreign
Affairs, Dekanosov, as Well as Counselor of
Embassy Hilger and Herr Pavlov, Who Acted
as Interpreters, Held in Berlin on November
12, 1940
Ribbentrop reviews the military situation
to show that Britain is already defeated and
states that Hitler favors an agreement on the
spheres of influence of Germany, Russia, Italy,
and Japan, Molotov requests a more precise
definition of the respective spheres of
influence.
Page XXX
VI. THE U.S.S.R. AND THE THREE POWER PACT, SEPTEMBER 25-
NOVEMBER 26, 1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Nov. 12 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the 226
Fhrer and the Chairman of the Council of
People's Commissars and People's Commissar
for Foreign Affairs, Molotov, in the
Presence of the Reich Foreign Minister, the
Deputy People's Commissar, Dekanosov, as
Well as of Counselor of Embassy Hilger and
Herr Pavlov, Who Acted as Interpreters, on
November 12, 1940
Hitler, after an extended review of the
world situation, affirms the possibility of
collaboration between the U.S.S.R. and the
signers of the Three Power Pact in the task of
keeping America out of Europe; Molotov agrees
that collaboration is possible but asks for
precise statements on Finland, on the Balkans
and Turkey, and on the meaning of the New Order
in Europe and Asia.
Nov. 13 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the 234
Fhrer and the Chairman of the Council of
People's Commissars Molotov in the Presence
of the Reich Foreign Minister and the
Deputy People's Commissar for Foreign
Affairs, Dekanosov, as Well as of Counselor
of Embassy Hilger and Herr Pavlov, Who
Acted as Interpreters, in Berlin on
November 13, 1940
Hitler repeatedly urges an agreement on the
division of the British Empire; Molotov insists
that there must first be recognition of Soviet
interests in Finland, the Balkans, and in
Turkey.
Nov. 13 Memorandum of the Final Conversation Between 247
Reich Foreign Minister von Ribbentrop and
the Chairman of the Council of People's
Commissars of the U.S.S.R. and People's
Commissar for Foreign Affairs, Herr
Molotov, on November 13, 1940
Ribbentrop outlines a broad division of the
spheres of influence of Germany, Italy, Japan,
and the U.S.S.R., and suggests the terms of
secret agreements defining this division and
bringing the U.S.S.R. into the Three Power Pact;
Molotov insists on more specific recognition of
Soviet interests in the Baltic, in the Balkans,
at the Straits; Molotov approves of
collaboration, but only after a thorough
understanding.
Nov. 15 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 255
(Weizsacker) to all German Diplomatic
Missions and the Offices in Paris and
Brussels
The visit of Molotov took place in an
atmosphere of mutual confidence and resulted in
agreement on all important questions.
------ Draft Agreement Between the States of the Three 255
Power Pact, Germany, Italy, and Japan, on
the One Side, and the Soviet Union on the
Other Side
A German draft, providing for the adherence
of the U.S.S.R. to the Three Power Pact, and
including two secret protocols, of which one
defines the spheres of influence of each power
and the other provides for free passage of
Soviet warships through the Straits.
Page XXXI
VI. THE U.S.S.R. AND THE THREE POWER PACT, SEPTEMBER 25-
NOVEMBER 26, 1940-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
NOV. 26 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 258
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that the Soviet Government
is prepared to accept the draft of the Four
Power Pact provided German troops are withdrawn
from Finland, provided Bulgaria concludes a
mutual assistance pact with the U.S.S.R. and the
U.S.S.R. acquires a base within range of the
Straits; and provided Japan renounces her
concessions in Northern Sakhalin; he outlines
five protocols to include these amendments; and
he requests a statement of the German view.
VII. SOVIET RESISTANCE TO THE GERMAN ADVANCE IN THE BALKANS,
DECEMBER 18, 1940-MARCH 13, 1941
Date Subject Pag
e
1940
Dec. 18 Fhrer's Directive 260
Preliminary plans for "Operation
Barbarossa," to crush the U.S.S.R. in a quick
campaign.
Dec. 31 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 264
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Finnish Minister intimates that German
assistance is expected in the event of a future
conflict with the U.S.S.R.
1941
Jan. 7 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 264
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg), the German Ambassador in
Turkey (Papen), the German Minister in
Yugoslavia (Heeren), and the German
Minister in Greece (Erbach-Sch”nberg)
Strong German forces are moving into
Rumania through Hungary, for possible operations
against Britain in Greece; a reserved attitude
is to be taken in conversation.
Jan. 7 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 266
Ambassador in Japan (Ott)
Instructions to tell the Japanese Foreign
Minister of transfer of German contingents to
Rumania.
Jan. 8 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 266
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Rumors are circulating concerning German
troops in Rumania.
Jan. 10 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 267
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
If questioned, say troop movements are
directed against the British in Greece.
Jan. 10 Secret Protocol 267
Settlement of the German claim to a strip
of Lithuanian territory, signed by Molotov and
Schulenburg.
Jan 17 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 268
(Weizsacker) to the Reich Foreign Minister
The Russian Ambassador submits a warning
that the appearance of foreign troops in the
territory of Bulgaria and of the Straits will be
regarded as a violation of Soviet security
interests.
Page XXXII
VII. SOVIET RESISTANCE TO THE GERMAN ADVANCE IN THE BALKANS,
DECEMBER 18, 1940-MARCH 13, 1941-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
Jan. 17 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 270
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov expresses surprise that no answer
has been received to the statement of November
25 offering Soviet adherence to the Three Power
Pact, he expects an early reply; Schulenburg
states that the issues are under discussion with
Italy and Japan; Molotov repeats the warning
concerning foreign troops in the territory of
Bulgaria and of the Straits.
Jan. 21 The Reich Foreign Minister to the State 271
Secretary in the German Foreign Office
(Weizsacker)
Instructions to inform the Soviet
Ambassador that Germany does not expect Britain
to occupy the Straits, but does expect Britain
to seek a foothold in Greece; German troops will
march through Bulgaria to expel the British. The
German Government adheres to the views expressed
to Molotov in Berlin and is discussing Molotov's
counterproposals with the Italians and Japanese.
Jan. 22 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 273
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Informs the Soviet Ambassador as instructed
by Ribbentrop, the Ambassador points out that
this statement is not in agreement with the
Soviet communication of January l7, Weizsacker
states his belief that the German plans will
serve Soviet interests.
Jan. 23 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 274
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
A similar conversation between Molotov and
Schulenburg.
Feb. 22 The German Foreign Office to the German 274
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
German military strength in Rumania is to
be made known and even exaggerated.
Feb. 23 The State Secretary in the German Foreign Office 275
(Weizsacker) to the German Ambassador in
the Soviet Union (Schulenburg)
Instructions to challenge, in conversation,
Greek reports that British troops are not in
Greece and that Greece has rejected British
offers to send troops.
Feb. 27 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 276
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov, on February
28, that Bulgaria will join the Three Power
Pact; and to tell him, on March 1, that British
action in Greece has forced a German advance
into Bulgaria.
Mar. 1 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 277
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov receives with evident concern the
news that Bulgaria has adhered to the Three
Power Pact.
Mar. 1 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 278
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that the German occupation
of Bulgaria involves injury to Soviet security.
Page XXXIII
VII. SOVIET RESISTANCE TO THE GERMAN ADVANCE IN THE BALKANS,
DECEMBER 18, 1940-MARCH 13, 1941-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
Mar. 13 Foreign Office Memorandum 279
German military authorities state that the
presence of the Soviet territorial commission in
eastern Germany can be permitted only until
March 25; strong German forces are already
assembled there.
VIII. THE SOVIET TREATIES WITH JUGOSLAVIA AND JAPAN, MARCH 25-
APRIL 13, 1941
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
Mar. 25 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 280
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Expresses doubt that Matsuoka was
completely frank in describing his two-hour
conversation with Stalin and Molotov.
Mar. 27 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the Reich 281
Foreign Minister and Japanese Foreign
Minister Matsuoka in the Presence of
Ambassadors Ott and Oshima at Berlin on
March 27, 1941
Ribbentrop reviews the military situation
and concludes that the Axis has already won the
war; he states that German relations with the
U.S.S.R. are correct, but that Germany regards
Soviet policy with suspicion; he suggests that a
Japanese attack on Singapore would break British
spirit and keep the United States out of the
war.
Mar. 27 Memorandum of the Interview Between the Fhrer 289
and the Japanese Foreign Minister,
Matsuoka, in the Presence of the Reich
Foreign Minister and Ambassadors Ott and
Oshima, March 27, 1941
Hitler argues that the British have lost
the war, but have not the intelligence to admit
it; Matsuoka expresses regret that sentiment
favorable to Britain and America has prevented
Japanese action, but he expresses confidence
that this obstacle will be overcome; Matsuoka
reports on his discussions in Moscow.
Mar. 28 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the Reich 296
Foreign Minister and Japanese Foreign
Minister Matsuoka on March 28, 1941
Ribbentrop states that read cooperation
with the U.S.S.R. is impossible, and recommends
that Matsuoka not discuss the adherence of the
U.S.S.R. to the Three Power Pact when he returns
to Moscow.
Mar. 29 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the Reich 303
Foreign Minister and Japanese Foreign
Minister Matsuoka in Berlin on March 29,
1941
Ribbentrop again advises Matsuoka against
political discussions with the U.S.S.R., and
promises German assistance in case of a Soviet
attack on Japan, he states that a war between
Germany and the U.S.S.R. is possible and
explains why Germany could not accept the terms
set by Molotov for Soviet adherence to the Three
Power Pact, Matsuoka says that he will have to
discuss a non-aggression pact in Moscow.
Page XXXIV
VIII. THE SOVIET TREATIES WITH JUGOSLAVIA AND JAPAN, MARCH 25-
APRIL 13, 1941-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
Apr. 4 Memorandum of the Interview Between the Fhrer 311
and the Japanese Foreign Minister,
Matsuoka, in the Presence of the Reich
Foreign Minister and Minister of State
Meissner at Berlin, April 4, 1941
Matsuoka tells of his conversations in
Rome; Hitler promises assistance in case of a
Japanese war with the United States.
Apr. 4 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 316
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov states that a treaty of friendship
and non-aggression would be signed between
Jugoslavia and the U.S.S.R.; Schulenburg states
that the moment chosen is unfortunate and vainly
urges that the Soviet Government reconsider the
matter.
Apr. 5 Foreign Office Memorandum-Memorandum on the 318
Present Status of Soviet Deliveries of Raw
Materials to Germany
After the conclusion of the German-Soviet
Commercial Agreement of January 10, 1941. Soviet
deliveries lagged, probably because of the
cooling of political relations; in March
deliveries soared, and continue at a high level.
Apr. 6 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 319
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions to tell Molotov that Germany
is taking military action in Greece and
Jugoslavia to expel the British from Greece;
Germany has no political or territorial
interests in the Balkans and will withdraw the
German troops when their task is finished.
Apr. 6 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 320
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov expresses regret at the spread of
war.
Apr. 9 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 321
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
In several conversations, he has been
unable to get from Matsuoka a straightforward
statement regarding Matsuoka's conversation with
Molotov.
Apr. 10 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 321
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
A Japanese-Soviet neutrality pact may be
signed.
Apr. 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 322
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Matsuoka says that the Neutrality Pact will
probably be signed this afternoon.
Apr. 13 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 323
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Describes Stalin's demonstration of his
desire for German friendship at the railroad
station when Matsuoka was departing.
Page XXXV
IX. THE FAILURE OF EFFORTS TO PRESERVE PEACE, APRIL 15-JUNE
22, 1941
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
Apr. 15 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 325
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
Sobolev accepts the German position on the
demarcation of the German-Soviet boundary, and
requests that mixed commissions fix the boundary
at once, Tippelskirch warns that any German
delay will arouse Soviet mistrust.
Apr. 16 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 326
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
The Japanese-Soviet Pact, and Stalin's
actions at the rail road station are interpreted
as evidence of a desire for Soviet-Axis
cooperation.
Apr. 18 Protocol on the Outcome of the Conference 326
Between the Plenipotentiaries of the
Government of the German Reich and the
Government of the Union of the Soviet
Socialist Republics To Inquire Into the
Observance of the Commercial Agreement
Between Germany and the Union of Soviet
Socialist Republics of February 11, 1940
Gives the total of Soviet deliveries.
Apr. 22 The German Charge in the Soviet Union 328
(Tippelskirch) to the German Foreign Office
Reports a formal complaint against
violations of the Soviet frontier by German
planes.
Apr. 23 The High Command of the Armed Forces to the 329
German Foreign Office
Complains of violations of the German
frontier by Soviet planes.
Apr. 24 The Naval Attach‚ of the German Embassy in the 330
Soviet Union (Baumbach) to the Naval High
Command
Rumors of a German-Soviet war are fed by
travelers from Germany, the British Ambassador
predicts the outbreak for June 22.
Apr. 28 Conversation of the Fhrer with the Ambassador 330
Count von der Schulenburg, on April 28,
1941
Schulenburg argues that the U.S.S.R. will
not attack Germany, but rather wishes to
cooperate with the Axis and will make even
further concessions to Germany; Hitler argues
that the U.S.S.R. cannot be trusted.
Apr. 28 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 333
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Argues that war with the U.S.S.R. would
give Britain new moral strength, and that a
German advance even to Moscow and beyond would
not bring peace but instead would prolong the
war and sacrifice the economic advantages
Germany now derives from peace with the U.S.S.R.
May 2 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 334
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Every traveler to Moscow brings rumors of
war, supported by facts.
Page XXXVI
IX. THE FAILURE OF EFFORTS TO PRESERVE PEACE, APRIL 15-JUNE
22, 1941-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
May 4 The German Foreign Office to the German 334
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Instructions for combating rumors of war.
May 7 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 335
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Believes Stalin has taken the chairmanship
of the Council of People's Commissars because he
wishes to develop good relations with Germany
and because he feels Molotov has failed to
achieve this goal.
May 12 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 336
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Maintains that recent events fortify the
belief that Stalin took the chairmanship in
order to avert a war with Germany.
May 13 The German Consul at Harbin (Ponschab) to the 339
German Foreign Office
Gives the text of an intercepted Soviet
dispatch warning that Germany may force a war.
May 15 Foreign Office Memorandum 339
Schnurre gives a summary of recent German-
Soviet commercial negotiations and of Soviet raw
material deliveries, he believes that Germany
could ask even larger deliveries.
May 15 The German Foreign Office to the German 341
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Reports of frontier violations by German
planes are being investigated.
May 16 The German Minister in Sweden (Wied) to the 342
German Foreign Office
Minister Kollontay on forces massed on the
western frontier of the U.S.S.R.
May 17 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 342
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
Oshima asks about German-Soviet relations
and receives an evasive reply.
May 17 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 343
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Sobolev says frontier violations by German
planes are continuing.
May 24 The German Foreign Office to the German 343
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
Demarcation of the German-Soviet boundary
will be arranged shortly, Woermann explains that
the purpose of this telegram is to delay a
survey of the boundary by a mixed commission.
May 24 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 344
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Argues that Soviet policy is directed at
the avoidance of a conflict with Germany.
Page XXXVII
IX. THE FAILURE OF EFFORTS TO PRESERVE PEACE, APRIL 15-JUNE
22, 1941-Continued
Date Subject Pag
e
1941
June 14 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 346
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov gives the text of a Tass dispatch
denying rumors of an impending break between
Germany and the U.S.S.R.
June 15 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 346
Minister in Hungary (Erdmannsdorff)
Hungary is to be prepared for a German-
Soviet break.
June 21 The Reich Foreign Minister to the German 347
Ambassador in the Soviet Union
(Schulenburg)
The text of the German declaration of war.
June 21 Letter from Hitler to Mussolini 349
Defending the decision to attack the
U.S.S.R.
June 21 Memorandum by the State Secretary in the German 353
Foreign Office (Weizsacker)
The Soviet Ambassador protests against
frontier violations by German planes; Weizsacker
maintains that there have been wholesale
violations by Soviet planes; the formal protest
is attached.
June 22 The German Ambassador in the Soviet Union 355
(Schulenburg) to the German Foreign Office
Molotov asks an explanation for German
dissatisfaction with the U.S.S.R., he wishes to
know what has caused the present situation in
German-Soviet relations, Schulenburg says he
cannot answer because he lacks the pertinent
information.
June 22 Memorandum of the Conversation Between the Reich 356
Foreign Minister and Soviet Russian
Ambassador Dekanosov in the Foreign Office
at 4 a. m. on June 23 [1941]
Ribbentrop announces that Germany has begun
hostilities.
Home ·
Site Map ·
What's New? ·
Search
Nizkor
© The Nizkor Project, 1991-2012
This site is intended for educational purposes to teach about the Holocaust and
to combat hatred.
Any statements or excerpts found on this site are for educational purposes only.
As part of these educational purposes, Nizkor may
include on this website materials, such as excerpts from the writings of racists and antisemites. Far from approving these writings, Nizkor condemns them and
provides them so that its readers can learn the nature and extent of hate and antisemitic discourse. Nizkor urges the readers of these pages to condemn racist
and hate speech in all of its forms and manifestations.