761.56/11–150
The Chargé of the Soviet Union ( Bazykin ) to the Under Secretary of State ( Well )
[Translation]
Sir: With reference to your note of September 19 concerning the question of the icebreakers “North Wind” and “West Wind,” I have the honor to communicate the following.
The Embassy of the USSR on May 31 of this year already informed the State Department of the existence of unusually severe ice conditions in the Arctic this year and that the icebreakers “North Wind” and “West Wind” were caught in solid Arctic ice. According to our present information, the icebreakers have not yet gotten out of the icefield into clear water because both have damaged screws. In view of this, unfortunately, it is not yet possible to specify a date for delivery of the icebreakers at Bremerhaven.
In the event that the position of the icebreakers improves, the Embassy will so inform the State Department.
Accept [etc.]