File No. 861.00/2193
The Ambassador in Russia (Francis) to the Secretary of State
[Received June 19, 3.25 p.m.]
Your June 4, midnight [5 p.m.],1 received 8th when armed Czechoslovaks had severed connections with that section [i.e., Siberia]. Railroad now refusing sell tickets east of Vologda therefore conclude Czecho-Slovaks moving. Soviet government received proposition from new Siberian government to send provisions on condition that Soviet would recognize new Siberian government which Soviet refuses.
Meantime French Embassy Vologda received cablegram from French Minister of Foreign Affairs stating military conference was [Page 214] held Paris June 3, decided to hold Murman first and then Archangel and to land British, French, Italian, American battalions for this purpose. Cable stated [Czecho-Slovaks] remain in Russia for the present with approval of Czecho-Slovak National Council, and Allied troops be under command of British until otherwise ordered. General Poole1 been expected Archangel since 12th but as troops are needed to expedite evacuation of supplies from Archangel, Soviet government probably ascertained that plan and may prevent Poole landing. Martin2 telegraphed 10th, received to-day, that Olympia landed 100 armed sailors 9th to replace British marines sent to Kandalaksha.
Under new phase situation has assumed I think Allied advance in Siberia very important if not absolutely necessary. Forces should contain Americans and Chinese although mainly Japanese troops but should contain American representation carrying flags.
Answering second question I think intervention from east will be welcome by great majority Russians especially after Allied intervention Archangel, Murman. Moreover armed Czechs are rapidly extending domination westward which Soviet government powerless to prevent except by arming German prisoners of war which reported doing. Furthermore famine imminent in Petrograd and throughout western Russia in consequence of Siberian supplies being cut off. Special representative from Moscow visited me to-day to ascertain on what conditions we will furnish flour; says Moscow has three days’ supply only and Petrograd virtually none; expresses willingness and claims authority to represent Soviet government or opposition thereto saying situation desperate and America is only source of relief.
More after military conference.