Document 180-10144-10240, part of the 2025 JFK file release, captures a rare and immediate reaction from Soviet officials following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
Sent by an informant who met directly with Soviet embassy staff, the report reveals a genuine moment of panic inside Moscow’s diplomatic ranks.
The Soviets weren’t celebrating-they were scared.
🧊 “They Were Deeply Shocked”
According to the source cited in the document, Soviet personnel at the Washington embassy were visibly disturbed by the assassination. Their concern wasn’t just political-it was personal.
“Soviet officials were genuinely alarmed… worried that the killing might have been part of a broader plot, or falsely linked to the USSR.”
This wasn’t propaganda. This was fear.
🧱 Damage Control Begins Instantly
What makes the document particularly valuable is its snapshot-in-time quality.
The Soviets weren’t sure what would come next. They were concerned about retaliation, public suspicion, and diplomatic collapse.
They made it clear to U.S. contacts that they did not know Oswald, did not support him, and viewed him as a threat-not an asset.
🔄 A Narrative Built on Denial and Distancing
While the tone of the source report shows sincerity, it also reflects a defensive posture.
The Soviets wanted the U.S. to know, immediately, that they had no connection to Oswald-regardless of what the facts might later reveal.
It was a preemptive disavowal-because the political cost of being blamed for JFK’s murder would have been incalculable.
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