Messersmith, G.S., Vienna. To William Phillips, Washington.
Date
1934-11-23
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Enclosures: 444 and 447. Speculates on results of Chancellor Schuschnigg's trip to Rome; impression is that Mussolini assured Schuschnigg of Italian support in case of German aggression; exchange of cultural institutions between Rome and Vienna has been suggested, but doubts anything will come of it; Austrian culture essentially German, not Latin; in working out Rome Protocols Austria made it clear she does not desire her position strengthened at expense of Hungary; Franz Hueber, one of the "Nationalists" who recently held conversations with Schuschnigg, is brother-in-law of Goering; Hueber just back from Germany and disappointed that Germany can do nothing at present for Austrian Nazis; Germany not yet ready for war and cannot afford any adventure which might provoke one; Hueber's information no doubt came from Goering; German friend, in Vienna for a few days, confirmed German progress in rearmament; Reichswehr in full sympathy with armament program, but takes no part in government; most of Nazi leaders, except Goering, think they are ready for war now, but Reichswehr knows better; Hungary wavering; Hungarian Prime Minister and Foreign Minister pro-German, but it is the old Germany to which they are attached, and Germany's refusal to make an unequivocal declaration regarding Austria has caused disillusionment; France having internal troubles which make difficult agreements between her and other countries; financial scandals and parliamentary troubles create poor background for problems France faces; Yugoslavia insistent that League take action with regard to murder of King Alexander; such action would embarrass France at present; League should first take up matter general agreement on right of asylum for political refugees; (group of Croation refugees in Hungary held responsible for plotting Alexander's murder); Yugoslavia has been urging Germany to remove Austrian Nazi refugees still in Yugoslavia; according to press reports refugees to be taken on German ships to Bremen and then to Bavaria; a female member of Thyssen family living in Austria; Thyssen originally subsidized Nazi movement, but according to memorandum prepared by member of Legation staff, who is friendly with them, their attitude now different; criticisms of Hitler government now more open; [Kurt] Schmitt back into German Ministry of Commerce to bring about partial devaluation of the mark; serious difficulties developing between Schmitt and [Hjalmar] Schacht; Austrian newspapers say Schmitt will go to Washington as Ambassador; Schmitt is good man, but can accomplish nothing under present government.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.