740.0011 European War 1939/17207
Memorandum of Conversation, by the Secretary of State
The Soviet Ambassador called to pay his respects and to present his credentials.
I first detailed to him the important phases of the Japanese developments during recent weeks leading up to their attack on yesterday morning. He stated that he was not surprised at their methods.
I then referred to the serious question of getting supplies to Russia, especially in the event the Arctic ports should become blocked in any way, and added that, of course, Japan would not now permit us to ship commercial supplies to Russia. I said that it remained to be seen whether or not she would permit Russia to purchase or procure military supplies here and ship them by Vladivostok. I added that the Japanese may be thinking also that Russia might be disposed to let the United States have air bases on Russian territory facilitating bombing by our planes of Japanese areas. The Ambassador said that the Japanese were doubtless not overlooking this phase.
[Page 662]He then showed interest in the question of getting supplies to Russia and stated that he did not know what Japan might do in this respect.
He made a general statement indicating that his Government might line up in a logical way with other nations, without mentioning this country. I replied that it would probably be found best for all concerned among the Allied nations to effect a complete line-up and bring about a terrific forward movement all along the line. He indicated his assent to this view. I especially requested him to keep in mind all phases in which either of our Governments might be interested and let us discuss them. He showed an excellent reciprocal state of mind.