861.00/4203: Telegram
The Commission to Negotiate Peace to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received 2:20 a.m.]
1444. Department’s 1363, March 29, 3 p.m. Discussed with Czech Minister for Foreign Affairs. He states that Major Slaughter’s report confirms his own impression as to the situation. He is opposed to repatriation of troops through Russia on two grounds: (1) That they are now ripe for Bolshevism and might be infected during [Page 281] journey; (2) that any arrangement made with Bolshevik authorities would injure relations with the Omsk Government.
He suggests as most practical solution that: (1) Troops be informed that they are to be repatriated by way of Vladivostok as rapidly as transportation can be made available, and (2) that some troops at least be started eastward to Vladivostok and some to Irkutsk. He added that gradual repatriation by this means would have the advantage of enabling the “digestion” of these troops as they arrive.
The foregoing appears to be the only practical solution of question. You may, therefore, if you deem it advisable, communicate in this sense with the military authorities.