854.24/134

Admiral William D. Leahy, Chief of Staff to the Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, to the Secretary of State

Dear Mr. Secretary: The Joint Chiefs of Staff have considered your letter of April 14, 1943 with regard to supplies for the Swiss Army.

Complete information as to the quantity of materials now going to Switzerland from this country or from other United Nations is [Page 903] not available to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Since Switzerland lies so completely within the military and economic orbit of Germany, any materials sent them are considered as contributing indirectly to the Axis war efforts.

It is believed that materials now going to Switzerland should be sufficient to maintain our existing military intelligence activities and to continue our diplomatic representation in enemy countries through the Swiss.

From a military viewpoint, it is considered inadvisable that this government agree to Swiss requests for additional materials.

Sincerely yours,

For the Joint Chiefs of Staff:
William D. Leahy

Admiral, U.S. Navy