His opposition resulted in his reassignment to Trieste with no possibility for professional advancement. His previous knowledge of Sweden and his ability to speak the language led to him serving as first secretary for the German legation in Stockholm from 1938 to 1945. According to Erik Boheman (Cabinet Secretary at the Swedish Foreign Ministry), during this time he "saw as his main priority to put legation reporting [to Berlin] in such a way that Sweden would avoid any extreme German measures", helping Sweden to stay out of the war.
His opposition led to him being transferred to Trieste with no chance for professional development. His prior knowledge of Sweden and language skills enabled him to serve as first secretary for the German embassy in Stockholm from 1938 to 1945. According to Erik Boheman (Cabinet Secretary at the Swedish Foreign Ministry), during this time, he focused on reporting to Berlin in a way that would prevent Sweden from taking drastic measures, thus helping Sweden remain neutral.