Paris Peace Conference 861.00/93: Telegram

The Commission to Negotiate Peace to the Acting Secretary of State

209. Your 72, January 2nd, 8 p.m. If Harris is recommending issuance of a Declaration regarding the Omsk Government similar to that which the French Consul, in the name of the Allies, issued regarding the late Ukrainian Government41 the proposal does not seem acceptable.

On the other hand although it may not be expedient to recognize Admiral Kolchak’s government at this time or to commit ourselves to any extensive military undertaking, it might be useful to put forth a declaration to the effect that the Associated Governments, while refraining from interference in the internal affairs of Siberia, desire to assist the existing government until such time as all Russia may become united under a central government in which the whole country is represented; this assistance to comprise economic and financial aid and the furnishing of military supplies.

I shall be glad to receive the views of the Department on the advisability of issuing such a declaration before submitting the matter to the President.

Lansing
Am[erican] Mission