Russian Troops Cross Border

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 159, 6 July 1940, Page 9

Russian Troops Cross Border

RUMANIA'S PLIGHT

Strong Red Forces Massing Along New River Frontier

MASS EXODUS FROM TOWNS

(United Press Association.—Copyright.—Eec. 1 p.m.)

LONDON, July 5

The British United Press Bucharest correspondent says a General Staff communique states that Russian troops have crossed the new Russo-Rumanian frontiers, clashing with Rumanian troops and causing deaths on both sides. A mass exodus has begun from a number of Rumanian towns, owing to persistent but unconfirmed rumours of a new Russian advance. The Russians are massing strong forces along the border and are preparing to fortify the Pruth River. Officials in Bucharest deny that Russia has made new demands. A declaration has been issued by M. Gigurtu, the new Rumanian Prime Minister, stating: "The Government is determined to maintain the most cordial relations with its neighbours. It regards peace in this part of Europe as an indispensable condition of a higher political order. Regarding other countries, the Government considers its duty is to collaborate in everything serving the cause of peace and European reconstruction. "We appeal to Rumanians to unite around the Throne and Government. We understand the Army's regret at being obliged to restrain its heroism. The Government will do everything possible to ensure the Army s strength is continually increased." The declaration warns those attempting to foment disorders that they will b«| immediately reduced to silence. The Moscow radio declares: "The lying British Press is trying to mislead the world into believing that the Soviet defences are directed against a possible threat from Germany. That is untrue. The British Press must be aware that British and French General Staffs were perfecting plans for an attack against Russia." The newspaper "Izvestia" publishes German White Books, which allegedly expose the Franco-British plans. The Tass Agency in Moscow denies that the Moscow station on Wednesday broadcast an appeal by Rumanians for Soviet help against another great Power.