Adolf Hitler to Mussolini

 

 

Hitler’s campaign in Western-Europe found an ardent supporter in the form of Italian Fascist ideologue Mussolini. The similarity between Nazism and Fascism brand of politics was so stark that people started treating them as an off-shoot of each other. This letter has been written by Hitler to Mussolini during the heat of the World War II. In this, Hitler talks about the possible pact of Germany with Russia in order to stop the latter striking a deal with the Allied Powers.

1st Nov 1939



To

DUCE,

For some time Germany and Russia have been engaged in an exchange of views about a new attitude on both sides in regard to their political relations. The necessity of arriving at some conclusions of this sort was increased by:

(1) The general situation of world politics as it affected both the Axis Powers.

(2) The necessity of securing a clear statement of position from the Japanese Cabinet. Japan would probably agree to an alliance against Russia, which would have only a secondary interest, under the prevailing circumstances, for Germany, and in my opinion, for Italy also.

(3) The relation of Germany to Poland, not through the blame of the Reich, but as a result of the activity of England, has become considerably unbearable. The reports about the persecution of the Germans are not invented press reports but represent only a fraction of the terrible truth. These grounds led me to hasten the conclusion of the German-Russian conversations. I have not kept you informed in detail, Duce, since I did not have an idea of the possible extent of these conversations, or any assurance of the possibility of their success.The readiness on the part of the Kremlin to arrive at a reorientation of its relations with Germany, which became apparent after the departure of Litvinov, has become ever stronger in the last few weeks and has made it possible for me, after successful preparation, to send my Foreign Minister to Moscow for the conclusion of a treaty which is the most extensive non-aggression pact in existence and whose text will be made public. The pact is unconditional and includes also the obligation for consultation about all questions affecting Russia and Germany. I may tell you, Duce, that through these arrangements the favorable attitude of Russia in case of any conflict is assured.

About the situation on the German-Polish frontier, I can only inform Your Excellency that we have been for weeks in a state of alarm, that as a result of the Polish mobilization German preparations have naturally also been increased, and that in case of an intolerable Polish action, I will act immediately. Since yesterday Danzig has been blockaded by Polish troops, a situation which is unendurable. Under these circumstances no one can say what the next hour may bring. I can only assure you there is a limit beyond which I will not be pushed under any circumstances. In conclusion I can assure you, Duce, that in a similar situation I would have complete understanding for Italy and that in any such case you can be sure of my attitude.

ADOLF HITLER