RUSSIA STRONGLY PREPARED

Press, Volume L, Issue 14917, 16 March 1914, Page 7

RUSSIA STRONGLY PREPARED

"CAN WITHSTAND A>T

ATTACK."

a sensatxcttat: γ^ticlk

. (By Cab!e.—Preee Association.—Copyright.) • ST. PETERSBrr.O, .MarcH 13. The *" Bourse Gazette" publishes sensational articles claiming to express the views of those in the highest cirttis, v,tio ft states claim the firmest confidence in Russia's ability to withstand any attack. It adds: "Russia's defensive strategy is no longer passive. Russia desires peace, but she is ready." The newspapers unanimously refuse to accept the intimidation of- the Austro-German Press. They recall the fact that Germany set the example by Increasing her military strength. M. Sazanoff, Minister of Foreign Affairs, states that there is no ground for the present excitement. Relations between Russia and Austria are excellent, though they were strained in 1913. The "Bourse Gazette," 6ays that Russia, in TT.c event of war, will no longer act on the defensive. Henceforward she will assume the offensive. Her fortj3cations have been completed, the etanaard of efficiency of her officers has been raised, her artillery, in many respects, excels that of France of Germany, and other branches, including aviation, are highly efficient.