File No. 861.00/1914
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 30, 6 p.m.]
205. Information from various sources confirms reported plan of Swedes [Finns], Germans to capture Murman line and Murman [Page 475] itself. Halsey wires Olympia arrived at Murman 24th which is exceedingly gratifying. Martin leaving here to-day for there with instruction to communicate with you direct if my communication severed. Have instructed him to advise Olympia commander to land marines if so requested by the local Soviet as the British and the French have already landed. Highly important Allies should retain Murman as its capture by the Germans would sever Archangel and result in Russian-American communication’s being confined to Pacific.