861.00/8670: Telegram
The Chargé in Japan (Bell) to the Secretary of State
[Received 2:31 p.m.]
194. The following telegram has been received from American consul at Vladivostok:
“June 3, 5 p.m. Repeat to Department.
Semenoff arrived on steamer flying flag of Japan preceded by a considerable number of his forces in small detachments and the local authorities say that he has 500 rifles concealed here whereas local authorities have only 225 armed forces, whom the Japanese forbid to use politically. Local authorities related history of the case, having wasted resources Semenoff practically bankrupt and his army owes million and half yen for supplies. Non-socialist organizations repeatedly sent to Dairen to dissuade him from any revolutionary expedition but his representatives in order to continue to receive his money fabricated popular demands for him to come. Savilleff his lieutenant is reported to have frankly declared that he could get all supplies needed if he held Vladivostok two weeks.
Before leaving Port Arthur Semenoff concerted with the Russians there. They have formed preliminary slate of the government with Paul Ivanoff premier. Half a dozen joining Semenoff military forces in coercing local authorities were arrested. His officers proclaimed him commander in chief and supreme ruler canceling promise to support local authorities when he started, and threatened to arrest local authorities, military forces and civilians. Told me they intend civil war and expect Japan to supply ten to twenty million yen. They propose attack Habarovsk from both sides using Partisans of the Amur and then Chita from three directions and wished to know the attitude of the United States. I referred to official publication.
[Page 725]Japanese authorities declared that they tried dissuade Semenoff but could not use force.
In view of the elections to be held soon to settle matter and the statement of local authorities and other information, consular corps fearing danger to life and property of citizens and foreign residents unanimously passed resolution Semenoff ought to be instructed not to land in Maritime Province and his forces here and elsewhere should be disarmed; and forwarded resolution to the local authorities for such action as may be appropriate.
… Arrival of Semenoff alarmed the population, extremists workmen declare that they will accept local authorities.
Principal officers of the previous administration departed under the protection of the Japanese to Harbin or Habarovsk.[”]