860P.85/67
The Latvian Minister (Bilmanis) to the Secretary of State
Sir: I have been deeply affected by the announcement which has been made today that war has been declared upon the United States by Germany, the power which at the present time is illegally and by force occupying my own country. It seems hardly necessary for me to state that every patriotic Latvian must consider that the welfare of his country depends upon the defeat of Nazi Germany and desires to do everything possible to aid in bringing this about.
There are at the present time in the waters of this hemisphere eight vessels flying the Latvian flag. Practically all of these vessels are operating at the present time. They are not, however, functioning with full efficiency since conflicts are continually breaking out among the operators, the masters, and members of crew. These conflicts are extremely difficult to mediate or settle in view of the absence of the owners or lack of clarity of ownership, and because of their inability to call at, or to receive directions from, Latvian ports.
It is my considered opinion that these vessels would be much more useful if they should be taken over by the Government of the United States. I also feel that the interest of the owners would be more carefully safeguarded as a result of their requisitioning by the American Government. In case the American Government should consider that it would be desirable to requisition these vessels, I wish to assure it that I am willing to lend cooperation in this matter in every way that is legal and proper.
Accept [etc.]