This policy conflicts sharply with the principles expressed by the General Assembly in its resolution of 11th December, 1946, which declares that relief supplies to other countries "should at no time be used as a political weapon". This is clearly proved by the measures taken by the United States Government with regard to Greece and Turkey which ignore and bypass the United States as well as the measures proposed under the so-called Marshall Plan in Europe. The so-called Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan are particularly glaring examples of the manner in which the principles of the United Nations are violated, of the way in which the organization is ignored. (3) Andrei Vyshinsky, Soviet Union spokesman at the United Nations, speech (18th September, 1947)
I believe that it must be the policy of the United States to support free peoples who are resisting attempted subjugation by armed minorities or by outside pressures. It relies upon terror and oppression, a controlled press and radio, fixed elections, and the suppression of personal freedom. The second way of life is based upon the will of a minority forcibly imposed upon the majority. One way of life is based upon the will of the majority, and is distinguished by free institutions, representative government, free elections, guarantees of individual liberty, freedom of speech and religion, and freedom from political oppression. (2) President Truman, speech to Congress (12th March, 1947)Īt the present moment in world history nearly every nation must choose between alternative ways of life. We must not let our Russian policy be guided or influenced by those inside or outside the United States who want war with Russia. The tougher we get, the tougher the Russians will get. "Getting tough" never bought anything real and lasting - whether for schoolyard bullies or businessmen or world powers. Add to all this the tremendous emotional power with Marxism and Leninism gives to the Russian leaders - and then we can realize that we are reckoning with a force which cannot be handled successfully by a "Get tough with Russia" policy. To achieve lasting peace, we must study in detail just how the Russian character was formed - by invasions of Tarters, Mongols, Germans, Poles, Swedes, and French by the intervention of the British, French and Americans in Russian affairs from 1919 to 1921. I plead for an America vigorously dedicated to peace - just as I plead for opportunities for the next generation throughout the world to enjoy the abundance which now, more than ever before, is the birthright of men. ▲ Main Article ▲ Primary Sources (1) Henry Wallace, speech in New York City (12th September, 1946)