861.24/3–2147: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Secretary of State at Moscow
613. Moskco 18. Personal for the Secretary. Question of authorizing further lend-lease pipeline transfers to USSR and other countries is now being considered by Congress.
Notwithstanding the evident indefensibility of USSR failure to respond to our proposals re lend-lease, we assume that your position in dealing with Soviet Union may be weakened if Department does not obtain authority from Congress to complete agreed lend-lease pipeline shipments, and if consequently US conspicuously defaults in connection with the pipeline agreement with USSR of Oct 15, 1945. Moreover we fear default might jeopardize collection for shpts already made. May we be advised urgently of your wishes. If you wish, we will ask Congress to consider the matter in the light of these broad considerations.