File No. 861.00/736
The Consul General at Moscow ( Summers) to the Secretary of State
[Received November 29, 5.28 a.m.]
89. Bolsheviki continue in undisputed control of government of Moscow and surrounding provinces. City quiet but disorders expected though population disarmed and resistance difficult. Bolsheviki inciting proletariat (against?) law-abiding citizens by which placards posted conspicuously. Accusing Allies of continuing war against will of people. Thousands of deserters returning to their homes. Famine at front and anarchists and German propaganda plunging entire country in chaos and endangering life and property of all.
I am endeavoring to arrange departure all American women and children at earliest possible moment. The entire consular staff, the [Page 269] Y.M.C.A., and the men connected with American enterprises will remain at their posts. To leave Russia now would only give Germans a freer hand to incite and organize Russian masses against us. American Red Cross members left as soon as possible after fighting began, notwithstanding my protests.
Strongly advise Department join, especially with neutral powers, in protest against present régime.
Bolsheviks’ decree prohibiting any one from withdrawing more than one hundred fifty rubles weekly from bank paralyzing business and creating panic. Consular Corps protesting energetically against this and similar measures affecting the rights of foreigners. No wireless publicity dispatches have been received as yet by Bullard1 but understand Bolsheviks are intercepting some important messages. I am continuing publicity work as energetically as before.
The disintegrating forces at work in Russia preclude any further active participation in the war for a long time. Even if the army so willed it, hunger and lack of clothes will prevent further operations. My opinion is that added and successful operations on the other fronts may induce the loyal forces to continue the war. Strong assurances should be sent for publication that America will aid Russia if she continues the war.
Bring this telegram to the attention of Polk and other high officers of the State Department.
- Arthur Bullard, director of the Russian division, United States Committee on Public Information.↩