A SUMMARY OF THE SITUATION

Dominion, Volume 34, Issue 139, 8 March 1941, Page 12

A SUMMARY OF THE SITUATION

Out of the obscurity of the “international diplomatic struggle,’’ whose main arena is the Balkans, the latest information states: Hitler’s message to the Turkish President, it is believed, contains a denial of any aggressive intention toward Turkey, but omits to say the same of its intentions toward Greece. It proposes a rapprochement with Turkey. The Turks, unimpressed by the assurance, are continuing defensive measures in a calm atmosphere.

The Yugoslav Government has publicly declared that its policy of peace and security is unchanged. The Greeks are watching Germany defiantly and are reported to be advocating “big measures and big risks.” Their forces in Albania, it is reported, continue to hold the initiative. Russia’s intentions continue to be speculated. American sources report that Germany has been sending a force of 100,000 to Libya, and it is suggested that this may be the first move in a drive from there and from the Balkans to Egypt and Suez.

The Royal Navy's spectacular swoop on the Lofoten Islands on Tuesday has caused a sensation through Norway. A mock invasion of Britain, lasting for a week, is said to have demonstrated the satisfactory strength of the country’s defences. The reported intention of the Japanese Foreign Minister, Mr. Matsuoka, to go to Berlin, is said to be due to his dissatisfaction with Japan’s one-sided obligations under its agreement with Germany. Japanese claim that their landings in Tonking have nullified American aid to the Central Chinese Government, but the Chinese say that the invaders are being engaged at all points