Memorandum on visit to Berlin of Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs [Guido] Schmidt, prepared by G.S. Messersmith.
Date
1936-11-24
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Enclosed with No. 785. Schmidt returned from Berlin pleased with visit; was courteously received; discussed with Hitler whole European situation; Hitler much concerned about Communism and felt that Russia was playing too great a part in European affairs; question of Franco recognition arose; told Hitler Austria would take no action toward recognition at present; Austria intended to remain in League of Nations but hoped some reforms could be made; informed Hitler Austria would purchase armament material from Germany; Schmidt gratified that he could quote Hitler's favorable comment on the work of Chancellor [Schuschnigg] in consolidation of Austria; felt that this would give the Vienna government a strong arm against Nazi criticism within the country; left Berlin with impression that there was no arrangement between Berlin and Rome; believed that Germany meant to keep her word respecting Austrian independence; question of restoration was raised, but since Austria considered it a purely internal question, he could not discuss it.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.