File No. 861.00/2612
The Consul at Vladivostok (Caldwell) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 31, 10.44 a.m.]
116. Yesterday Zemstvo issued proclamation turning over “full powers “to so-called provisional government of autonomous Siberia which is to perform all functions of state. This may make it necessary to deal with Siberian government as local administrative organ unless Allied military government accepts command.
Referring to my August 24, 9 p.m.,1 upper classes are much incensed by disarmament [order] sent out by Allied military commanders on recommendation of Consular Corps and request Russian force be permitted to form and proceed to front as part of international force fighting against Germany. This is desirable if it can be arranged but Allied control essential to prevent force being used in interests of any one party. Also some parts of present international force may decline to accept Russian unit.
Tokyo and Peking informed.