File No. 861.00/1652
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 24, 8.30 p.m.]
118. Replying to Robins’s inquiry, I have told him could not ask him to remain in Moscow to neglect of Red Cross work but expressed [Page 131] appreciation of information and suggestions received from him. He wires Kornilov death confirmed and states that ends all internal opposition to Soviet government. Robins very emphatically declares time has come for Allied cooperation with Soviet government or Allied opposition.
Webster, Hicks here to-day, returning from Siberia; report not exceeding 1,000 prisoners armed and have written guarantee from Siberian Soviet that maximum will not exceed 1,500. Reports of Macgowan, with newspaper instinct, reported every rumor and made erroneous impressions. They affirm prisoners will only be armed to oppose Japanese invasion in which event they will be organized by their own officers now in prison. Said that Siberians, when asked if Allied intervention would be opposed, replied that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to ask Allied assistance in absence of recognition, as quoted in my No. 97, April 13, 7 p.m.