740.0011 European War 1939/30810: Telegram
The Chargé at Vatican City to the Acting Secretary of State
Vatican City, August 20, 1943.
U.S. urgent
Following is from a reliable source. (This is Tittmann’s 159, August 20 with reference to his 156, August 17.)
An interministerial committee met some days ago to discuss measures to be taken in connection with declaration by Italian Government that Rome is an open city and another meeting held yesterday of same committee with Badoglio presiding. In addition to orders already given to anti-aircraft batteries Rome not to react in case of raid pending their suppression Badoglio ordered immediate removal from Rome of all possible military objectives both personnel and material. Question of military traffic through Rome still presents difficulties but every effort is being made to solve problem and it is hoped satisfactory solution will soon be found. Meanwhile, orders have been given military trains all kinds now obliged pass through Rome should do so without stopping.