RUSSIA TO GERMANY

Evening Post, Volume CXXVIII, Issue 107, 2 November 1939, Page 14

RUSSIA TO GERMANY

M. MOLOTOV'S SPEECH INTERPRETED

BRITISH COMMENT

SOVIET OUT TO HELP ITSELF

(British Official Wireless.)

(Received November 2, 1 p.m.)

RUGBY, November 1.

M. Molotov's speech to the Soviet Supreme Council was fully reported in the Press, but owing to its late reception comment so far has been meagre. The speech followed the lines generally anticipated, particularly in its reaffirmation of Russia's neutrality, which must inevitably disappoint Herr Hitler. The "Daily Mail" states:—"Berlin had said that M. Molotov's speech would prove a turning point in the war —.in Germany's- favour. If M. Molotov's words that the main plank in Russia's foreign policy is continued neutrality mean anything, Herr Hitler can expect ng direct assistance from M. Stalin.

"True,"jthe article states, "there were some pious phrases about a policy of permanent friendship with Germany. This, however, was based not on a military alliance, but on the development of mutual trade. There is nothing here about the 'necessary measures' which were to have followed the rejection of Herr Hitler's so-called peace offer. There is nothing of any new peace terms put forward by Herr Hitler through M. Stalin. There is no turning point. Russia is not out to help Germany or Britain or France or any other foreign nation. She is out to help Russia."

The "Daily Herald" states: "Russia will not fight for Herr Hitler. That is the substance of M. Molotov's speech. In return for handing over the Baltic to M. Stalin, Germany gets nothing but words."

The "Daily Express" states: —"M. Stalin will give Herr Hitler moral support but not armed assistance."