17 June 1944, No. 195

June 17, 1944. Wilgress perceives a brief period of détente between the United States and Soviet Union, attributing it to close military cooperation and better understanding between the two. He refers back to his own despatch No. 80 of July 1943, in which he notes Admiral William Standley lambasting the Soviets. Subsequent American attempts to foster a warmer atmosphere were successful in alleviating some of the Soviet suspicion of the Americans. An increase in US prestige inspired a certain optimism in Wilgress’ assessment of the situation in the Soviet Union after the turbulence of 1943.