Only Genius Gan Avert Disaster

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 304, 26 December 1939, Page 7

Only Genius Gan Avert Disaster

Fatal Russian Haste in Finnish Campaign Fate May Be Decided on Polish Frontier United Press Assn.—By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright. Received Monday, 7.20 p.m. NEW YORK, December 24. The Moscow correspondent of the New York Times, Mr. G. E. If. Gcdye, says that the only prominent Soviet personage -—and he is one of the most prominent, being often mentioned as Stalin’s own choice as his successor—whose tribute on the occasion of Stalin’s birthday was conspicuous by its absence is Audrey Zhdanoff, leader of the Leningrad area,, and avowedly the leading spirit against Finland, who is believed to have succeeded in precipitating the war despite considerable opposition from the Political Bureau, which advocated Stalin’s usual waiting tactics and cautious methods. Zhdanoff is also considered to be the leading anti-British spirit. The Finnish campaign thus far has not brought military glory to Russia, while the Soviet’s haste in proclaiming the Finnish People’s Government was calculated to force the Soviet to attempt the complete military subjugation of Finland and made acceptance of a reasonable compromise a task which only a great statesman could accomplish. The omission of Zhdanoff’s tribute to Stalin may be n coincidence, but, in view of the above circumstances, it is most interesting. Continuing, Mr. Gedye says only a supreme organising genius can avert disaster. Under such circumstances the Soviets have not proved that Bolshevism has enabled the Russians to overcome their historic organising weakness. “One reason,” Mr. Gedye adds, “for the decision to strike Finland may have been M. Zhdanoff’s impetuosity, but a deeper reason for the haste is the. command of the Gulf of Finland and probably the realisation after the first few months of war that the Nazis’ ‘numbers are up.’ “The Russians see none of Herr von Ribbentrop’s boasts being fulfilled. Germany is checkmated on land, sea and air. Without proper reserves a long war would be even worse. A gulf is developing between the gang constituting political leadership and the professional soldiers who in wartime inevitably acquire real control.” Continuing, Mr. Gedye says: “The Soviet leaders are looking to the time when Germany’s old ruling caste, realising that the war cannot be won, will seek Allied terms in preference to fighting until they are destroyed. At such a point it is believed Germany will seek victories to salve her prestige and gain British and French favour by attacking the Soviet. Therein doubtless is the main motive for the desperate haste in advance of defensive positions in Finland and elsewhere. “Increasing evidence of haste is forthcoming on the new Russo-German frontier in Poland, where it is now certain that Germany is planning a new “East Wall” and the Soviet is pushing on with the construction of its defences.”

Mr. Gedye adds: “Whether or not Hitler really congratulated Stalin on his birthday, the Soviet attitude is unflattering because the message is at present ignored by the press and radio despite the publication of messages from more obscure foreigners.”

In a later message Mr. Gedye says Hitler’s and von Ribbentrop’s birthday greetings to Stalin were published three days late.

M. Stalin, acknowledging the birthday congratulations in a message to Herr von Ribbentrop, said: “I am convinced that there is every reason that the friendship between the peoples of Germany and Russia cemented by blood will be lasting and firm.” He also sent messages to Herr Hitler, Dr. Tiso (Hungary), M. Sarajoglu (Turkey) and M. Kuusinen leader of the Finnish Puppet Government (the latter previously having been reported to be arrested.) To M. Kuusinen he said: “I wish the Finnish people early and complete victory over their oppressors, the Mannerheim-Tanner gang.” To Marshal Chiang Kai-shek he wished complete victory over the enemies of China.