Estimated reading time — 10 minutes

In the direct aftermath of World War II, two major meetings among world leaders were held: the Yalta Conference and the Potsdam Conference. We view these meetings now with hindsight and the knowledge that they would go on to shape the post-war world order. What is not widely known is that something unspeakable occurred during that time.

What follows are the surviving journal logs, letters, call recordings, and diplomatic cables of William Averell Harriman, then United States ambassador to the Soviet Union.

Journal Entry 1

March 27, 1945 – Moscow

My entourage and I were received at 10:00 hours and driven through the Kutafya Tower gate. On previous visits, the first sensation upon entering the Kremlin was always the silence. Today was different. After passing the walls of the Kremlin, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of people in suits darting around trying to get from one building to another.

There was an air of tense coldness that could be felt when observing the faces of those men, as if they were visibly alarmed and distraught. This was not the atmosphere I had come to associate with the Kremlin; it was in that moment that I realized something was clearly afoot.

I glanced at the envoy sent to receive us. His body language told the same story as the others. Before we reached the Grand Kremlin Palace, I took my chance to ask him in Russian, “Busy day at work”? He seemed to have forgotten that we were in the car with him. He answered curtly, “Busy”.

We arrived at the palace promptly. The usual air of calm and stillness seemed gone. Courtiers darted back and forth, speaking in hushed tones to each other. One word that seemed to keep coming up was “Protocol”.

When approaching the entrance to the palace, we were informed that the Foreign Minister was unavailable. The phrase was delivered briskly and with no further comment. The official who met us was a tall, gray-haired man, slightly gaunt.  His expression was practiced, but not unreadable. Beads of sweat rolled down his face, hinting at unease. He bowed slightly and led us to the hall.

The aide led us down the hall. I noticed that in front of many of the rooms that were accessible before stood security guards. Corridors that had previously been accessible were also now off limits, guarded securely by Kremlin Security guards. It was as if we were being steered away from something, rather than being invited toward it. At this point, I couldn’t help but feel anxious, but also a sense of dread.

Before long, our aide led us to the entrance of a room. Before my entourage and I stepped inside, he said, “You may bring your deputy, Mr. Harriman”. I had little choice but to comply. The aide gestured for my deputy, George Kennan, and me to enter. It was a small, sparsely furnished room I had visited before. Normally, that familiarity would have lent me some comfort, yet the walls felt narrower than before.

The aide motioned toward a pair of chairs near the table. There sat Sergei Viktorovich Orlov, an official whom Kennan and I had met before. The meeting had been planned in advance. We were to discuss administrative matters and other routine business. We followed the usual progression, topics familiar and mundane. Yet, as we progressed, I could not ignore the tension in the building. Guards stood with uncanny rigidity, and the rapid footsteps of the courtiers darting around outside were unnerving. Something was off, though the conversation itself was innocuous.

After we went through all of the scheduled topics, I asked Orlov a question that had been weighing on my mind, “And the recent movements in the Northern Sector, are they routine exercises?”

Orlov paused, taking a glance down at the papers in front of him. “Everything is as it should be, Ambassador,” he replied. Polite, yet the flicker of unease in his eyes betrayed him.

We departed shortly afterward at 12:45 hours. The corridor seemed quieter, like the chaos from before had slightly subsided. Whatever was being hidden, I could sense its presence, though I could not quite place my finger on it. 

As we walked back toward the palace exit, I glanced at Kennan. He remained silent, his brow furrowed as if he too had sensed the subtle irregularities. The aides, the guards, and even Orlov in the meeting had seemed to be acting like something was deliberately concealed, though for what, I’m not sure.

By the time we reached the outer gate, normalcy seemed to return. Yet the impression remained, something had happened, and I’m not sure what.

End of entry.

_________

Diplomatic Cable 1

MOSCOW CABLE NO. 1521

From: AMEMBASSY MOSCOW
To: SECSTATE WASHINGTON
Date: March 28, 1945

HIGHLY CLASSIFIED – TOP SECRET

Observed unusual security patterns at Kremlin during scheduled meeting. Corridors normally accessible were blocked, several rooms heavily guarded. Officials displayed tension and evasive behavior. Orlov polite but guarded in responses to questions. Northern Sector exercises reportedly “as they should be,” yet signs suggest otherwise.

No overt threats observed. Recommend continued close observation of Kremlin activities. Will provide further updates as warranted.

HARRIMAN

END OF MESSAGE.

_________

Letter 1 – April 15th, 1945

My Dearest Marie,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. The days here in Moscow have felt uncomfortably long. Work in the embassy has increased over the past two weeks for good reason.

The work continues, although in ways I could’ve never expected. In the last week, I have come across information that I still have not yet come to terms with. You know how cautious I must be, for your own sake, but I must say recent developments have been haunting me.

It is strange, Marie. Working as a diplomat, one becomes accustomed to dealing with things beyond the understanding of civilians. Yet lately, the sense of familiarity has vanished.

Do not worry about me. I assure you that I am in good health. These circumstances demand vigilance, Marie, but I remain as level-headed as I can. I wish to one day be able to explain this to you plainly.

Send my love to the girls. I miss them dearly. I’ve been thinking of our quiet nights at home more often these days.

Yours, always,
Averell

_________

Phone Call Transcript

DEPARTMENT OF STATE – TELEPHONIC MEMORANDUM (RECONSTRUCTED)

Date: April 17th, 1945
Time: 2105 hrs (Moscow)
Origin: U.S. Embassy Moscow
Participants: A. Harriman / G. Kennan
Subject: Recent Soviet Security Developments
Distribution: EUR Division, Military Attaché, Office of Special Reports

NOTE: This memorandum reconstructs the contents of a telephonic conversation based on post-call memoranda and embassy call notes.

KENNAN: Ambassador, I have reports on the occurrences from the Siberian research zones. Movement across research and administrative offices has been restricted. Personnel reassigned with no explanation.

HARRIMAN: I noticed the closures myself. Any indication why?

KENNAN: Only fragments. One of our contacts mentioned recoveries made during the latest expedition. Circumstances irregular.

HARRIMAN: [STATIC] I see.

KENNAN: Precautionary measures remain in effect. Movement still limited, though the Kremlin itself appears calm.

HARRIMAN: That aligns with my observations. This doesn’t seem to be a routine exercise.

KENNAN: Four researchers were lost. Circumstances reported were unusual, with no real explanation.

HARRIMAN: [STATIC] Understood. We proceed cautiously. Washington should be briefed immediately.

KENNAN: Agreed.

HARRIMAN: Document everything.

KENNAN: Will do.

END OF MEMORANDUM
Filed by: Embassy Communications Office, Moscow

_________

Journal Entry 2

April 20th, 1945 – Moscow

Woke up gasping. I don’t think I breathed.

The dream. I can still see it. I must write this before I forget.

The bodies were joined. Not lying next to each other, but fused. Something must’ve twisted and melted them together into this [ink scribble] inhuman ball. Arms bent the other way, legs snapped in half and seemingly amalgamated. The faces moved. I could see the mouths open and close, gasping for air.

It wasn’t dead. No. I don’t think it was dead. The pulsating mass had a heartbeat. The flesh pulsated to the hypnotic beating of the thing.

It must’ve felt me. It had no eyes, but it knew I was there. I’m not sure how I knew. It was just the first thing I thought.

I felt like I was being spoken to. Not in any language, but I felt and knew that I was being spoken to. It wanted me closer. I wanted to get closer.

I tried to move, but I couldn’t. My feet were bound to the ground like quicksand but harder. I think I heard something crawling. I think it was the thing.

I don’t remember waking up. 

I can still feel it watching me, like it stayed behind. The room is quiet, but I still feel the rhythmic beating from my dream.

The mass beckoned for me. It needed me.

END OF ENTRY.

_________

Memo 1

INTERNAL MEMORANDUM

Date: May 1, 1945
From: Office of Administrative Coordination
To: Ambassador A. Harriman
Subject: Attendance at Morning Briefing

Ambassador,

It was noted that you were not present for the morning briefing at 0900 and did not arrive at your office until 1130. The morning briefing was deferred in your absence.

This marks the third late arrival this week. Please advise whether a temporary change in hours or delegation of duties is required.

Best,
Edward J. Cavanaugh
Administrative Attaché

_________

Journal Entry 3

[PRIVATE NOTE – UNSENT]

Overslept again. Did not intend to.
I need to control this.
The nights feel longer.
I do not remember waking.

END OF ENTRY.

_________

Diplomatic Cable 2

DEPARTMENT OF STATE – CABLE

MOSCOW CABLE NO. 1522

FROM: AMEMBASSY MOSCOW
TO: SECSTATE WASHINGTON
Date: May 2, 1945
SUBJECT: Restricted Soviet Research Operations

Recent embassy observations continue to indicate heightened Soviet security stance regarding scientific activity in Siberian research zones. Access to research installations and personnel have been restricted. Soviet officials provide no explanation.

Request authorization to initiate inquiry and visit affected areas for clarification.

Advise,

HARRIMAN

_________

Letter 3

April 29, 1945 – Washington D.C.

My Dearest Averell,

I received your last letter yesterday. I was glad to hear you are well. Although I must tell you something honestly. Your writing felt different this time from the others. Distant, somehow.

Perhaps it’s simply the strain of your position. But even on paper, you seem tired. I worry you are not sleeping.

I don’t want you to misconstrue this as me doubting you, only that I wish I could understand what has been troubling you. Please write to me soon and tell me you are well. The girls miss you. So do I.

With all my love,

Marie

_________

Memo 2

INTERNAL MEMORANDUM

Date: May 3, 1945
From: George F. Kennan
To: William A. Harriman

Subject: Observations

Averell,

I write briefly to express concern about your recent focus on developments in Siberia. While vigilance is necessary, I advise you to exercise caution and not allow curiosity to supersede prudence.

Please ensure all movements remain within the bounds of authorized activity.

Your health and clarity of judgment remain paramount.

Best,
George F. Kennan

_________

Journal Entry 4

[PRIVATE NOTES – UNSENT]

Kennan’s warning was sobering. I understand the concern. Yet I cannot dismiss the need for me to see it myself.

The situation in Siberia calls for scrutiny. The restrictions, the sudden reassignment of personnel, they cannot all be routine. My presence there is justified and needed. For the embassy and my duty. I must.

Despite all this, there is something else I can’t put my finger on. A pull, no, a need I cannot name or explain. Nights are longer, and I find myself longing for the bed. I awaken still wanting more.

I must restrain myself.
I must restrain myself.
I must restrain myself.

_________

Diplomatic Cable 3

DEPARTMENT OF STATE – CABLE

MOSCOW CABLE NO 1523

From: AMEMBASSY MOSCOW
To: SECSTATE WASHINGTON
Date: May 6 1945

Request for authorization to undertake temporary travel to affected areas in Siberia to conduct an evaluation and gather information. Assessment indicates personal observation is necessary to ensure accuracy and completeness of reporting.

All protocols will be strictly observed. Mission shall be limited in scope and duration.

HARRIMAN

_________

Letter 4

May 8, 1945 – Moscow

Dear M. Harriman,

A brief note to inform you that I will be travelling east for a short inspection trip in Siberia over the next several days. I anticipate the journey to be uneventful and the stay brief.

The work here has been demanding. Any delays in my correspondence are due solely to the pace of events. There is no cause for concern.

Best,
Ambassador Harriman

END OF ENTRY.

_________

Memo 3

FIELD OBSERVATION REPORT

Report No: SI-64-8192
Date: May 17 1945 – Debin, Magadan Oblast
Filed by: Edward J. Cavanaugh, US Army, Military Attaché

Accompanied Ambassador William A. Harriman to Soviet scientific outpost K-287 in Debin, Magadan Oblast, under the stated objective to observe “geological disturbances”. Ambassador Harriman appeared preoccupied, replying slowly to the conversation.

The research outpost consisted of three satellite huts connected by surface conduits; one hut remained locked. A low humming vibration was heard near the locked sector, although staff claimed it was harmless. 

Ambassador Harriman was lackadaisical at times, displaying periods of inattention and a strange fixation on the locked hut. He wrote extensively in his personal notebook, often pausing while on the convoy as if observing something. Soviet explanations of the site’s activity were incomplete. Local wildlife displayed strange behaviour near the site.

END OF ENTRY.

ATTACHED ADDENDUM

MEDICAL OBSERVATION ADDENDUM

Examined Ambassador Harriman a day after arrival on May 18, 1945 at 1200 hrs. Mild tremor noted. Pupillary reaction delayed. Cognition alert, but intermittent repetition noted. Subject paused frequently during exam, as if listening to something. 

Further monitoring advised. Subject refused extended rest, stating: “The matter requires my presence. I can feel its shape now.”

Filed: Lt. Cmdr. G. B. Marsh, USN Medical Corps, May 18 1945

END OF ENTRY.

_________

Journal Entries 5, 6, 7, 8

May 18, 1945 – Debin, Magadan Oblast

The facility is smaller than expected. The researchers insist the disturbances are geological, but they avoid certain corridors with a coordination that feels practiced. The air inside the rear hut is warmer than the weather should allow. Strange. I can feel the vibration from the floorboards, constant and perceivable. Cavanaugh claims not to feel it.

I woke briefly last night with the feeling that someone had spoken my name from outside my temporary residence, although guards reported no movement. I need some rest.

END OF ENTRY.

05/19/1945 – Siberia

The vibration has a rhythm to it. Almost exactly like the pulse of a heart. It grows stronger towards the locked sector. I asked one of the Soviet soldiers what lay inside. He said, “Only what we could not leave outside”. 

During the inspection, I felt compelled to pause near the locked sector. Not curiosity, nor was it fear. It was a sense of alignment, a sense of belonging. There was warmth beneath the boards. 

Cavanaugh asked if I needed rest. I told him I was fine.
I am fine.
I am fine.

END OF ENTRY.

Day 4 – “Terra”
(Notation unexplained)

Dream last night. Not a voice, not an entity, but a feeling. I felt pulled to something.

I find the Soviets increasingly agitated. They speak in low tones, Kennan.

END OF ENTRY.

Unfinished Page – [UNDATED]

There is an order.
Not disorder.
Not madness. A structure. An entity moving toward me.

The others felt it before me.
The missing ones.
The four.

They were arranged.

I understand why I’m here.

END OF ENTRY.

_________

Memo 4

UNITED STATES MILITARY ATTACHÉ – SIBERIA INCIDENT REPORT – OUTPOST K-287

Report No: SI-64-8199
Date: 21 May 1945
Filed by: Edward J. Cavanaugh, U.S. Army, Military Attaché
Location: Debin, Magadan Oblast

At approximately 0420 hrs, a structural breach occurred at Soviet scientific outpost K-287. Audible deformation of the left hut was reported by guards posted near the restricted sector. Soviet personnel initiated a lockdown of the compound. Ambassador Harriman was unaccounted for.

Soviet staff instructed all U.S. personnel to remain within designated quarters. Compliance was maintained, though communications with Soviet command remained limited. Communication attempts with Ambassador Harriman were deferred or ignored.

At 0500 hrs, a team of Soviet engineers entered the restricted sector. Their return was delayed, and no information was provided regarding the findings within the sector.

Ambassador Harriman’s personal journal was recovered from his quarters, open on his desk.

Soviet Command declared the area “under control” at 0735 hrs. No solid explanation provided for Ambassador Harriman’s disappearance. Persistent requests for access to the restricted sector have been denied.

END OF ENTRY.

_________

FINAL JOURNAL ENTRY

?? ??, ???? – ????

I know everything.
I see everything.
I see you.
I know you.
I know everything.
I see everything.
I see you.
I know you.
I know everything.
I see everything.
I see you.
I know

There is no greater sorrow than to recall our times of joy in wretchedness.

END OF ENTRY.

Credit: David Tang

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