GERMAN DRIVE ON MOSCOW

Wairarapa Times-Age, 14 October 1941, Page 5

GERMAN DRIVE ON MOSCOW

But Outlook Still Serious in Tremendous Battles RUSSIANS POURING IN REINFORCEMENTS POSITION NORTH OF THE SEA OF AZOV OBSCURE LONDON, October 13. Marshal Timoshenko is preparing new defence positions to stem the German onslaught towards Moscow. Thousands of well-equipped Russian regulars are pouring into the fighting area. There are indications that the terrific German offensive towards Moscow is slowing down, although the Russians admit that the Germans are still advancing in some sectors. There is still no news, even from German sources, to indicate that the Germans have reached any point 100 miles from the capital. The situation, however, remains serious, in spite of the strong Russian resistance. . The Russians report fierce fighting in the direction of Viazma. The only big German claim is that 350,000 Russian troops were made prisoners in the battles of Viazma and Bryansk. Berlin admits, however, that Russian attacks are still taking place in these sectors. The Germans appear to be held in their drive north of Orel, between Tula and Orel. What is described as a complete block has been thrown across the road between the two towns. .The position on the northern shore of the Sea of Azov remains obscure. While the Germans claim that the Russian formations had been wiped out, a Russian communique reports successful counter-attacks. From the Ukraine there is a lack of reliable news. It is stated in London that there is no indication that the German drive to Kharkov had made any further progress in the face of fierce Russian resistance. In the Leningrad area Russian counter-attacks seem to be keeping the Germans on the defensive. The counter-attacks are continuing. MUNITIONS FOR RUSSIA Flow From United States Ports President Roosevelt has announced that munitions for Russia are leaving’ United States ports constantly. Everything possible is being done to send material to the Soviet to help her brave defenders. All munitions, tanks, planes and lorries promised at the Moscow Conference for October would be sent to Russia before the month ended. Another message states that Britain has asked the United States for American rolling stock and a larger quantity of rails to use on the Trans-Iranian railway, for the sending of supplies to Russia.