File No. 861.00/737

The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

2039. Pravda, official publication of Soviet, publishes manifests to-day signed by Lenin and Trotsky. It announces that German commander in chief has consented to peace negotiations meaning armistice; that Krylenko has postponed five days opening of armistice negotiations “in order to propose once more to the Allied Governments to define their attitude to the matter of peace negotiations. Military operations on Russian front have been stopped by mutual consent.”

It appeals to soldiers, workmen and peasants of the belligerent countries by name including ours. It states: “On December 1 (meaning 2) take up peace negotiations. If the Allied nations do not send their representatives we shall conduct negotiations with the Germans alone. We want a universal peace. But if the bourgeoisie of the countries forces us to conclude a separate peace the responsibility will fall entirely on it.” Elections terminate to-day. Returns incomprehensible but great interest; liveliest during the last few [Page 253] days, and unconfirmed reports indicate Bolsheviks will be disappointed with returns. Constituent Assembly will be most representative of all authorities since Emperor abdicated. If elections fairly held and votes honestly counted it will represent will of Russian people. Reported that day of assembling postponed to November 30 but can find no authority therefor.

If separate armistice concluded and operative it should be conditioned on opposing armies remaining [in] statu quo, and in default of contrary instructions shall request meeting of Allied chiefs whom shall advise to send military attaché informally or without recognizing Soviet government to so recommend to negotiators of armistice.

Have received no instructions concerning recognition. Reported that President Wilson has made emphatic public statement concerning Russian situation. Is it true?

Francis