861.24/1648: Telegram
The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Standley) to the Secretary of State
[Received September 7—3:45 p.m.]
1285. From Faymonville to Stettinius.
1. Soviet Government requested 16 hydroelectric stations. Commissar understands that 11 stations approved but that application for 5 stations aggregating 211,000 kilowatts either disapproved or not yet approved.28 Commissar explains that local construction work for the 5 stations has long since begun. His words follow:
“Enormous amounts of energy and resources have already been devoted to these five projects. These stations are for regions which possess important munitions industry but no coal and the stations are absolutely essential. If it is not possible to deliver the equipment for these stations before June 30, 1944 then at least consider at once the question of approving the projects for delivery during second half of 1944 so that work can be begun in America immediately.”
Commissar personally asks your assistance in expediting approval of entire hydroelectric project which he considers of critical importance. [Faymonville.]