Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1942, The American Republics, Volume V

811.20 Defense (M) Argentina/435: Telegram

The Ambassador in Argentina (Armour) to the Secretary of State

Buenos Aires, December 14, 1942—6 p.m.
[Received 7 p.m.]

2547. For Ducas,³⁸ USCCo, from Albarracin.³⁹ Embassy reliably informed that small quantities platinum intended for Axis are now being purchased in Colombia through Argentine channels. Informant who entirely trustworthy assures Embassy he can purchase 5 kilos now on hand and arrange purchase 2 kilos monthly thereafter payment against delivery Embassy Bogotá or designee. Price about 18 Argentine pesos gram including informant’s travel expenses here to Colombia as his presence there essential.

This would stop at source part supply now coming here for Axis. Please cable if you wish us arrange. [Albarracin.]

Armour

38. Robert N. Ducas, Executive Vice President of the United States Commercial Company.
39. Louis A. Albarracin, field representative of the United States Commercial Company.