File No. 861.00/859
The Ambassador in Russia ( Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 23, 8.20 p.m.]
2128. Kaledin resigned attributing same to false reports concerning his objects. Conflicting reports concerning results of conflicts between Cossacks and Bolsheviks but the majority indicate Bolsheviks’ defeat. Reports are current of engagements between Ukraine troops and Cossacks concerning land differences, Rada confiscating lands owned by Cossacks.
Reported yesterday that peace conference terminated because of irreconcilable differences. This is unconfirmed but persistent rumors to the effect that enemy delegations refuse to grant Russian demands such as self-determination of nations. I fear separate peace will be concluded on geographic [German] terms as this government is under German influence and knows that if hostilities resumed will be overthrown.
Soviet bulletin of the 20th instant contains article demanding release of Berkman and Goldman saying, “We have right to make demand on American Ambassador who should remember if American people can remain silent when their comrades are being made game of, the Russian public will certainly not keep silent if the Russian emigrant is being trifled with.” Article also mentioned Mooney, Baker and Kramer and says: “Everywhere our comrades are sitting in the prisons of the democratic republic of the United States.” Another anarchistic Berkman-Goldman meeting called for the 22d.