As the conference progressed, Stalin’s desire to extend Soviet power in many directions became abundantly apparent. He showed an interest in Italian colonies in Africa, and proposed that the Allies should have Franco removed. Churchill’s worst fears would have been aroused if he had overheard an exchange between Averell Harriman and Stalin during one break. ‘It must be very pleasant for you’, Harriman said, making conversation, ‘to be in Berlin now after all your country has suffered.’ The Soviet leader eyed him. ‘Tsar Aleksandr went all the way to Paris,’ he replied.
