THE BALKAN CRISIS

Evening Star, Issue 13144, 28 December 1908, Page 6

THE BALKAN CRISIS

THU RUSSIAN MINISTER'S VIEW. AUffFß^'S-POLICY - WAIWWNG TO PETTY STATES Press Association—By Telegraph—Copyright. ST. PETERSBURG, December 26. ' M. Isvolsky (the Rusian Minister of Foreign Affairs), in the course of a fttl speech in the Duma, commended the great results of the Anglo-Russian Agreement, and vigorously criticised Austria's policy. He f affirmed that* Russia's views in regard-to the Balkans' were in accord with; the views of all; with whom international law was a living entity. He strongly warned Servia and Montenegro to avoid any rash action. Replying to the criticism of those who declared that Rusia's policy ought to be a simple protest against the annexation of M. Isvolsky admitted, apparently regretfully, that Russia was handicapped by certain secret .engagements with Austria, contracted between 1876 and 1878, so that she was now unable to protest alone against the annexation, which concerned the signatories collectively. Russia needed peace and time to recuperate. She aimed at a peaceful solution of the Balkan crisis by legal means. Amid the cheers of the majority the Minister advocated a moral political union between the Balkan and Slav States. Russia's aim was to combine with Turkey for the* realisation of their common ideal —the defence of their national and economic development. A vote of confidence was awarded M. Isvolsky. TRESS CRITICISMS. VIENNA, December 26. The Austrian newspapers express indignation at Russia's attitude and accuse her of imperilling peace. The German newspapers declare that Russia is- delaying the conference and advancing demands which Austria is unable to accept. PARIS, December 26. The French Press denounce Baron Aehrenthal's (the Austrian Foreign Minister) cynicism, and tdeclare that France expects the violators of the Treaty of Berlin to compensate the sufferers. MESSAGE FROM KING EDWARD.. VIENNA, December 26. The newspapers attach importance to the fact that Count Mensdorff, the Austrian Ambassador in London, is bringing the •Emperor Francis Joseph a verbal message from King Edward. It is believed that the message recommends Austria to arrange matters with Turkey.