761.93/4–547: Telegram
The Consul General at Dairen (Benninghoff) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 14—11:18 a.m.]
55. Imminent arrival National Government authorities from Tsingtao as reported by Embassy Nanking brings up for consideration Sino-Soviet relations here, especially ability National Government officials assert themselves and be more than figureheads in face of strong Russian position.
See my telegrams 36 and 39, March 15 and 20.
At Yalta “pre-eminent interests” of Russia in this area were safeguarded. The Sino-Soviet treaty gave Russia half railway and half port. Since then Soviets have consolidated locally and question arises whether China, in present economic political turmoil, can take over other half and become equal partner with equal voice. This point will be important to United States when questions of trade and foreign exchange arise, as general expectation is that Soviets intend discourage third power interests through domination of port and weakness Chinese officials. Russian action regarding former Chinese Eastern Railway will be recalled.
Sent Department as 55. Repeat Nanking, Shanghai, Mukden, Moscow.
Large Soviet-Chinese meeting now taking place Port Arthur. Details still unknown but strong rumor suggests that “imported” Communists will be replaced by local people in temporary regime. Future of Communists, and parleys between National officials and local Russians and Chinese concerning administration including policy will be interesting.
Russian General [at] Dairen rumored to be no longer “commandant” but “representative” of Soviet military chief Port Arthur. There is no suggestion Soviet military plan leaving Dairen. Sino-Soviet [Page 510] treaty provides military regulations in force Dairen during “war with Japan”. Also Chinese civil officials must fulfill proposals for defence security made by Soviet Military Commander. Thus Soviet Military Representative remaining Dairen can exert strong influence and might even prevent use this office radio transmitter even if Sino officials agree.
Until end of “war with Japan” acknowledged by Soviets, difficulties in Dairen may be expected to continue.