EASTERN EUROPE - SOVIET UNION: PREMIER STALIN'S RECENT PRAVDA INTERVIEW

Created: 11/5/1948

OCR scan of the original document, errors are possible

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EASTERN EUROPE

SOVIET UNION

Premier Stalin's recent PRAYDA Interview apparently indicates some shift In thestimate of Itsfor achieving Ita Immediate objectives in tbe Berlin dispute. The USSR probably stillegotiated settlement of the Berlin issue on terms which would permit ultimate Sovietof Berlin and Communist penetration of western Germany. The Kremlin apparently believes, however, that such terms probably cannot be obtained from the western powers under present circumstances. Stalin's interview may therefore have been intended to prepare tbe ground, both within the Soviet Union and abroad, for further unilateral action on Germany, possibly including partition and the establishment of an east German state. The Soviet people have never been told of the real gravity of the Berlin situation and therefore need to be prepared for any step as drastic as the renunciation ofwith the western powers. As Soviet propaganda designed for foreign consumption, the Stalin Interview reiterates the allegation that ihe western powers are responsible forworld tension and warns the West that the USSR may proceed unilaterally In Germany. The uncompromising stiffness of Stalin's remarks therefore suggests that in the absenceace saving compromise, the USSR is prepared to accelerate preparations for the formation of an east German state.

Soviet propaganda preparations for the annual celebration of Ihc October Revolution sharply contrast with the extravagant preparations being heralded throughout the world at this time last year. The lessozen news Items about thewhich have appeared may reflect Kremlin preoccupation with the world situation. This year's slogans which will be used to define the Communist "line' during the next twelve months represent little change from the pattern of themes emphasized last year.

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