The Waikato Times TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 1939 INTENSE DIPLOMATIC ACTIVITY

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20919, 26 September 1939, Page 6

The Waikato Times TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 1939 INTENSE DIPLOMATIC ACTIVITY

Intense diplomatic activity is filling the gap caused by the pause in Germany’s aggressive advance. Eastern Europe particularly is in the throes of intrigue that may have a profound effect on the future map of Europe. Most of the activity is shrouded in secrecy, and the Press and the public can only estimate the position on its outward probabilities. If the real relations of Germany and Russia were known, much would be explained, but it is evidently part of the diplomacy of both countries to keep the world in doubt. It is certain, however, that Russia has shared the spoil of Poland with Germany and has substantially improved her strategic position with relation to Rumania and Hungary, though her ultimate aim in those territories can only be guessed at. Every day the importance of the Bosphorus is receiving greater emphasis. Germany has been busily engaged with Turkish diplomats, and discussions between Russia and Turkey are reported to have reached an advanced stage. If Germany extends her sphere of influence to the Black Sea the opening of the Bosphorus will be a prime consideration. The possibility of a pact of non-aggression between Russia and Turkey is being discussed seriously, and it is said this will not affect Turkey’s relations with Britain and France. Whether it will cause further complications depends upon Russia’s intentions. Russia’s knowledge that Turkey commands the outlet from, the Black Sea is an important factor in the negotiations. There are many who believe that Russia does not intend to march side by side with Germany in an attempt to secure a Nazi victory. It is even reported that Stalin is convinced that Germany will eventually "be defeated. If that is so, what does he expect the position will be when the Allies demand the return of Poland to the Poles ? It is claimed, however, that Russia is acting simultaneously with Germany merely to ensure that Herr Hitler does not secure too much territory and gain an undue strategic advantage. In other words she is acting really in self-defence. In any case Russia will have the opportunity later to prove her bona tides. Herr Hitler declares that Russia remains Bolshevik and Germany remains Nazi, and there the puzzle rests in the meantime. Italy’s position in the game of diplomacy is becoming increasingly difficult. Movements in the Balkans are definitely threatening her interests. Signor Mussolini, who for weeks has maintained a strict silence, has found it necessary to speak again. He has shown that Italy desires to remain neutral, and this attitude is confirmed by recent Italian commercial undertakings. Threats of German incursions into the Balkans would give Italy, as much as any other nation, cause to take precautions in her own interests. Those interests would not be served by allowing German influence to overrun the Balkan States. Hence Italy’s fear that her own neutrality may be disturbed can be appreciated.