File No. 861.00/1138
The Minister in China (Reinsch) to the Secretary of State
[Received 5.06 p.m.]
Consul at Harbin reports German prisoners Irkutsk expecting orders from Petrograd to mobilize. Efforts are made to arm more prisoners. Chita again in hands of Bolsheviks. Russians in Harbin have raised large sum and sent first detachment to assist Semenov; other detachment to follow. Semenov has requested Japanese assistance. Russians are growing disgusted with Allied incurable [inaction], conservatives turning to Japan, and Bolsheviks to Germany. General confusion growing. Only 15 per cent of population Bolshevik, but growing.
[Page 53]Consul reiterates his recommendation about the railway and equipment of Russian force to establish military government, turning over [to] provisional government.
Russians, lacking leaders, helpless, discouraged, insist small Allied force is essential nucleus to inspire confidence. There is no opposition whatever among the population to use of such a force. If Allied force is impossible, Semenov at least should be supported. Thus far, Moser.1
The effect in Siberia of the resumption of hostilities by Germany against the Bolsheviks is not yet manifest. It would appear to make quick action on the part of the United States and Allies most essential as well as promising of good results. I have the honor to emphasize recommendations in the telegram of February 19, 5 p.m.2
- Charles K. Moser, Consul at Harbin.↩
- Not printed; renewed recommendations concerning railway operation contained in telegram from the Consul at Harbin, Feb. 3, 3 p.m., vol. iii, p. 219, and added suggestions for publicity in Russia concerning America.↩