Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, The Lansing Papers, 1914–1920, Volume II

763.72/10049

The Secretary of State to President Wilson

Washington, May 20, 1918 .

My Dear Mr. President: Enclosed is the reply of the British Foreign Office⁹³ to our inquiry as to the advisability of declaring war on Turkey and Bulgaria.

This makes the situation as follows: The British, French and Italian Governments agree in advocating a state of war with both countries, while the Supreme War Council favors war against Turkey at once and probably war against Bulgaria later in the event of the latter not being affected by a declaration against Turkey.

From the political point of view the Council’s advice seems to me unwise. As to the united opinion of the Allied Governments I think careful consideration should be given. I feel, however, that a decision cannot be much longer delayed.

Faithfully yours,

Robert Lansing

93. See ibid., p. 232.