861.00/3860: Telegram
The Chargé in Russia (Poole) to the Acting Secretary of State
[Received February 15, 8:40 a.m.]
866. The following summary of a conversation this morning with General Ironside is sent in connection with the Embassy’s 815, January 31, 6 p.m. Ill success, so far, of Bolsheviki in following up Shenkursk advantage, due to two very favorable Allied operations within past fortnight, has materially eased situation and General feels reassured. Reenforcements from Murman consisting of one battalion of British infantry and half a machine-gun company now arriving and order issued from London for despatch from Murman of another battalion and remainder of machine-gun company. With these reenforcements General considers Allied position fairly secure for the time being but says there is always an element of danger in Bolshevik numerical superiority. Their forces estimated 8,000 last October 20,000 about New Year now believed to number 40,000. Next critical period expected to come with opening of upper Dwina. Between middle of April and middle of May headwaters will become clear of ice permitting Bolshevik naval forces which are of considerable strength including six-inch guns mounted afloat to operate against our forces at Beresnik and elsewhere in action and [Page 617] in transportation of troops and supplies. During this time lower Dwina will remain frozen preventing our naval force from cooperating, and transportation over roads will be impracticable owing to thaw. This critical period will extend over probably one month. Admiral McCully, who with Military Attaché has read this telegram, is especially impressed with the difficulties of the river problem.
Sent to Paris as number 40 same date.