893.00/5–2648: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden ( Ward ) to the Secretary of State
[Received May 26—10:31 a. m.]
228. Communists, realizing danger rear occasioned by presence large, well-equipped Government force to rear in Changchun (mytel 221 to Department, repeated 293 [213] to Embassy, dated May 24), [Page 257] now attacking with 3 divisions, west independent 5, north independent 10 and 18 division of 6th column. Last-named unit considered one Communist’s best and has been formerly used as “shock troops” in launching an attack. Sixteen division Communist 6th column now between Ssuping and Changchun moving northwards. Attack commanded by Chou Pao-cheng who commanded Communists when they captured Changchun 2 years ago.
Communist 2 and 3 columns formerly in Hsian area preparing move westwards towards Ssuping. These two columns considered Communist’s best northeast. Their deployment after reaching Ssuping may determine whether present unclear situation Changchun merely attempt drive Government forces Changchun back into state close siege or definitely capture city. Some sources, including ESD, advancing possibility attack on Changchun, which will be costly for Communists if capture attempted, is compromise between Russian-controlled Chinese elements who are believed to have desired immediate complete conquest northeast and Mao Tze-tung and Lin Piao70 group, believed to have thought northeast liquidated all practical purposes and who desired conserve troops for southern intramural China rather than waste on costly attacks of Mukden–Changchun. Believed too early accurately appraise situation.
Main body Communist 10th column, north Mukden in Tiehling area, moving westwards. Advance elements have [passed] Faku on way to Changwu. Remnants of column still remain Kaiyuan–Tiehling areas. If all units above move as presently indicated, area north Mukden to Ssuping will be practically devoid Communist troops. Some elements Communist 4th column south Mukden believed moving westwards. Main body not yet sufficiently committed as certain [uncertain?] whether entire unit will move. If it does, Communist units south Mukden will consist 1 column and 6 independent divisions.
Sent Department 228, pass Nanking as 297.
- General Lin was the supreme Communist commander in Manchuria.↩