THE WAR, STEP BY STEP

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 1, Issue 96, 4 December 1939, Page 7

THE WAR, STEP BY STEP

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1. Diph-"Vintic relations between Finland and Russia have been completely severed "with the retail of the Russian Ambassador. Molotoff incites the Russian people in a radio speech. Calmness prevails in Finland although the general impression is that a climax is approaching. Turkish leaders fear that the German and Russian armies will launch big offensives in the Balkans and are preparing to meet such a threat. Chief of the Dutch Intelligence Service announces thai he- is resigning his position as a to the Vilno IridnnppiTg. Australian Premier indicates that the 2nd A.I.F. wi'.l be despatched overseas early in the New "Year. French communique announces the capture of two enemy merchantmen by warships. The United States; Secretary of State, Mr Cordell Hull, states that the U.S.A. is willing to extend its good offices in settling the RussoFinnish dispute. Heinkel bomber brought down over the Northumbrian coast. The total number of enemy aircraft brought down since October the 10th is 23. French scouting patrol in the Saar region penetrates into enemy territory for two miles and returns with valuable information.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 Russia invades Finland, launching large .scale attacks by all arms. President of Finland, M. Kallio issues proclamation, stating: "With a view to maintaining the country's defence and constitution Finland has declared a state of Avar." Moscow still refuses to acknowledge invasion even though the Russian forces have crossed the frontier and the naval and air arms Muvc bombarded the towns. Twelve of the streets in the city of Helsinski are in flames, the Finnish capital being extensively damaged. It is estimate:! that ten Russian 'planes were shot down during the day. is believed that the Finnish Fleet has put to sea for the purpose of engaging the Russian Fleet which already has occupied some islands. Members of the Soviet diplomatic staff in Helsinski are being held as hostages for the safe return of the Finnish staff in Moscow. R.A.F. 'planes return from one of the most audacious raids in the history of war flying, when they ma-chinc-gunned the seaplane base at Borkum, on the East Friesian Islands. America's offer to mediate between Russia and Finland meets with cold reception at Moscow. French claim that Germany has lost thirty submarines. R.A.F. fighters active in driving off six enemy aircraft over Scotland j Further neutral protests against the British intention to confiscate all goods bound to or exported from Germany.