Saint-Pierre and Miquelon: Bold Stroke or Prudence?

Admiral Émile Muselier lies off Saint-Pierre with 3 corvettes and a submarine of the Free French Naval Forces. The archipelago's radio transmitter continues to broadcast signals that benefit U-boats prowling the North Atlantic, while the local administration pledges allegiance to Vichy. De Gaulle has given the green light for a takeover, but Washington has made clear, without ambiguity, that any military operation against a territory under French authority would be seen as a violation of the Monroe Doctrine and could shatter the fragile relationship between Free France and the United States.

Muselier holds a rare opportunity: the population appears sympathetic to Free France, and his corvettes are more than enough to neutralise the token Vichy garrison without a fight. Yet to act means provoking the foreseeable fury of Secretary of State Cordell Hull, who is protecting the American accommodation with Vichy at all costs. Standing down would preserve good relations with the indispensable American ally while leaving the archipelago as a useful enemy outpost.

Muselier must decide before Washington formalises its veto: land and seize the archipelago by force despite American opposition; accept Roosevelt's objections and sail away to avoid damaging the alliance; or pursue a discreet negotiation with the local Vichy administration to sidestep a diplomatic confrontation.