893.00/11–1848: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State 26
[Received November 18—7:56 a. m.]
2253. Battle Hsuchou, by at least initial phase, has ended with Government forces holding most of original positions and Communists breaking contact and withdrawing. Main weight Communist attack under Chen Yi was directed against numerically inferior Government army group east Hsuchou. At rt of battle this group was isolated and suffered losses equal half its strength, but remainder was concentrated and successfully resisted Communist assault with good cooperation from Air Force. Communists began withdrawal about November 15. Meanwhile, smaller Communist force under Liu Po-cheng, attacking from west, cut railroad several points between Pengpu and Hsuchou. Government forces Pengpu attacked northwards and have regained control of line, with Communists moving out in southwesterly direction.
Currently, Government army group from Pai Chung-hsi’s command is approximately 50 miles west Pengpu moving toward that city. This group expected engage Liu Po-cheng’s forces within next several days, but appears have capability reaching destination.
Communists probably unable resume offensive in this area without several weeks’ delay for extensive regrouping and resupply, and may decide attack on Nanking area unfeasible with forces presently available. Thus, situation could conceivably develop into stalemate of considerable duration. Communists can concentrate vastly overwhelming force for new offensive by movement units from Manchuria, involving several months’ delay. Government Supreme Headquarters Nanking amazed at success, which stemmed largely from determination field commanders and troops to fight and from effective assistance from Air Forces, which attacked vigorously from low levels destroying numerous Communist concentrations and preventing extensive movement during daylight hours.
Sent Department 2253, pouched Consulate China.
- Copy transmitted by the Acting Secretary of State to the White House on November 19 for President Truman at Key West, Florida.↩