893.00/9–2945: Telegram
The Chargé in China (Robertson) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:40 p.m.]
1690. Given below is summary of Military Attaché’s report for week ending September 29:
Communist forces intensifying activities in North China, chiefly in Kalgan, Peiping and Mukden areas. Many Communist agents in Peiping; Jap garrison not yet surrendered. There are indications that some Communist units in this region have received Jap arms with assistance of Soviet occupation forces further north. Communists in full control Kalgan area and reported organizing and training people’s militia. Soviet forces reported in Changpei, 30 miles north of Kalgan and in communication reportedly with Communists.
In Mukden area, Communists are reported in considerable numbers and said to have been armed substantially by Soviets with captured Jap materiel. Eighth Route Army forces, in role of liberators, have disseminated posters and pamphlets in South Manchuria. Apparently Soviets have not stopped these activities and although verified reports are lacking there are indications Soviets have a hand in Chinese Communist strategy in Manchuria and North China. Extent of Soviet support is not known nor what place Chinese Communists have in Soviet plans for Manchuria. However, implications are serious and conflict with Allied strategy in China. Such conditions are significant in view of conversations now in progress in Chungking between Gimo and Mao, and it is difficult to believe there is sincerity, at least on part of Mao Tse-tung. Strength of Eighth Route Army is apparently steadily increasing, and more important positions are being occupied. Continuation of this trend will be determined perhaps by willingness of Soviets to support Communists even if such support means conflict with Allied plans of flying Central Govt troops into area concerned. (End Summary)
Embassy has found it difficult to obtain reliable information on developments in North China and Mukden areas. However, American Army officers who have been in Mukden recently report that some Eighth Route Army forces appeared in Mukden early in September; [Page 573] rough estimates placed their numbers at possibly 3,000. These troops reportedly well armed and equipped; no open fraternization with Soviet forces. Embassy is endeavoring obtain further information on situation in Manchuria and Kalgan and will report when this is available.
Reports have been received indicating that Soviets are removing Japanese factory equipment from Manchuria.70