Progress of the War.

Press, Volume LIII, Issue 15895, 8 May 1917, Page 6

Progress of the War.

The French success north-east of Soissons appears to have been even more sweeping than-first reports indicated. The occupation of Craonno and the further advance in the same region has enabled General Nivelle to practically clcar the Aisne heights and thus dominate the valley. The importance placed upon these positions by the enemy is shown by tho fact that the troops were ordered to hold them at all costs, and that they did their utmost to carry out the order. That they wore unable to do so in spile of tho liugo forces expended in the effort, is a tribute to the magnificent gallantry of tho French army. Tho success is probably tho most important which General Nivelle's troops have so far achieved since tho offensive opened, and must have far-reaching effects. It has made a very serious breach in the defence of Laon, tho fall of which would bo a bitter blow to Hindenburg. The German report, as 'usual, makes very little of the advance, but admits tho occupation of certain positions. The situation on the British front has undergone practically no change since 3*esterdny. Several fierce countcr-at-tacks have been launched, particularly in the neighbourhood of Bullecourt, where the most definite breach has beeu made in tho Hindenburg line. Here the Australians aro said to he maintaining their position against the desperate efforts of considerable enemy forces to dislodge them. They are described as being surrounded on all sides by the enemy, but are dug deep in tho trenches of Hindenburg's line, which form practically a fortress. It must be particularly galling to the enemy to find that the strength of his own positions is now proving of value to the

British. The situation in Russia re- I mains unsatisfactory, and it is becoming daily more evident that the Allies can look for very little assistance from their Eastern ally for 6omo time to come. The frank statement of the Russian "War Minister regarding the condition of affairs in the army is probably much nearer the truth than any "jjj&vious statement so far made. The announcement that Germany is about to launch her attack on I'etrograd, which is attributed to tho Military Commander at the Capital, General Korniloff. is probably made largely with a view to influencing the internal situation. General Alexieff's belief that Germany is much too busy in the West to launch such a venture at the present juncture is probably nearer the truth.