AIDING RUSSIA

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20084, 2 November 1939, Page 5

AIDING RUSSIA

MOLOTOV DISCLOSURE LONDON PRESS VIEWS REACTION IN BERLIN REMARK NOT NEEDED (Elec. Tel. Copyright—United Press Assn.) (British Official Wireless.) Reed, 12 nnon RUGBY, Nov. 1. The speech given in Moscow yesterday by the Soviet Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, M. Molotov. was fully reported in the press, but owing to its late reception comment so far is meagre.

The speech followed the lines generally anticipated, particularly in its reaffirmation of Russia's neutrality, which must inevitably disappoint Herr Hitler.

The Daily Mail states: "Berlin had said that M. Molotov's speech would prove the turning point of the warin Germany's favour. If M. Molotov's words that the main plank of Russia's foreign policy is continued neutrality mean anything, Herr Hitler can expect no direct assistance from M. Stalin True, there were some pious phrases about the policy of permanent friendship with Germany. This, however, is based not on a military alliance, but on the development of mutual trade. Nothing was heard about the 'necessary measures' which were to have followed the rejection of Herr Hitler's so-called peace offer. Nothing was heard of any new peace terms put forward by Herr Hitler through M. Stalin. There was no turning point. Russia Out to Aid Russia "Russia is not out to help Germany, or Britain, or France, or any other foreign nation. She is out to help Russia. The Daiiv Herald states: "Russia will not fight for Herr Hitler. That is the substance of M. Molotov's speech. In return for handing over the Baltic to M. Stalin, Germany gets nothing but words." The Daily Express states: "M. Stalin will give Herr Hitler moral support, but not a'rmed assistance." It is reported from Berlin thai German political circles emphasise the complete Russian-German agreement revealed in M. Molotov's speech, which created an excellent impression. It is said it explains itself so completely that comment is unnecessary. The Associated Press of Great Britain learns from Berlin that the impression prevailing is that Germany is ready for more positive initiative, Informed circles in Berlin say that neither M. Molotov's speech nor the Italian Cabinet reshuffle harms the German cause.