U.S. and Japan May Clash On Supplies for Soviet

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 186, 7 August 1941, Page 7

U.S. and Japan May Clash On Supplies for Soviet

VLADIVOSTOCK ROUTE WASHINGTON, Aug. 5. The United States Government’s plan to make shipping available for the transport of military supplies to Russia by way of Vladivostok, Soviet Far Eastern port, has, it is considered, opened up another prospect of conflict between Japan and the United States. A report is circulating in Washington that President Roosevelt is likely soon lo make a further pronouncement on the freedom of the seas as a warning to Japan against possible interference with such supplies for Russia. Japanese interference could be expected to carry American public opinion far beyond the point where it would hesitate on an armed conflict with Japan, states London. A considerable number of British goods are already on the way to Russia. In return, Russian supplies will be made available to Britain.

The United States and the Soviet have exchanged Notes extending the present commercial agreement for one year. The United States pledged full economic assistance and priority in the delivery of essential war materials. Tho Assistant Secretary of State, Mr. ,Sumner Welles, in confirming the extension of aid to Russia, said the United States Government was issuing unlimited licences permitting the export to the Soviet of a wide variety of material needed to strengthen the defences of the country. The United States was also favourably considering extending shipping facilities to hasten aid to Russia.