Paris Peace Conf. 181.921/22
General Bandholtz to Countess Karolyi
My Dear Countess Karolyi: The enclosed letter was received yesterday from the American Red Cross in Paris,83 and I had one of my liaison officers immediately endeavor to telephone you its contents. As he could not reach you personally, but simply delivered the message I am enclosing this letter for your information.
In regard to the subject of Hungarian prisoners of war in Siberia I will furnish you the following extract from a recent letter which although not encouraging will at least enlighten you:
“These prisoners are in a very difficult situation, and, for your personal information, I can not see, at the present time, any immediate prospects of their repatriation.
The Supreme Council has decided that the repatriation of contingents of friendly troops of Czecho-Slovakia, Yugo-Slavia, Poles and Roumanians is to be effected prior to the repatriation of enemy prisoners of war.84 The friendly contingents aggregate some 72,000.
The finance necessary for the repatriation of the friendly contingents has been very difficult to arrange, but I think this will be covered by joint British and American credits. Our War Department reports that it will cost approximately $250.00 per head to repatriate the friendly contingents.
You were kind enough to send me, in your letter of November 18 a list showing the total number of Hungarian prisoners now in Russia. Multiplying the total shown by your list by the $250.00 factor demonstrates that the financial problem alone for the repatriation of enemy prisoners is practically impossible to meet today. Our Government, under its laws, can not advance any credits on this account. The American Red Cross is endeavoring to raise money to provide some local relief, but this is dependent entirely upon voluntary contributions in America. It is not probable that an extensive program can be adopted. My suggestion is that the Hungarian Red Cross, or some [Page 734] other similar body in Hungary get in communication with the American Red Cross officials with a view to coordinating their activities. By this means the greatest possible relief may be afforded these unfortunate Hungarian Nationals now in Siberia.”
I regret exceedingly that the outlook is not more favorable but I know you prefer to have the whole situation placed before you.
I shall be very glad at any time to be of service.
Very sincerely yours,
- Not printed.↩
- See HD–65, minute 4, vol. viii, pp. 488–489.↩