FULL OF FIGHT.

Gisborne Times, Volume XLVIII, Issue 4592, 22 June 1917, Page 3

FULL OF FIGHT.

BRITAIN AND FRANCE,

RUSSIA’S INACTIVITY' AFFECTS

PEACE TALK.

U-BOATS’ VERDUN

LONDON, June 5. The general situation is full of extraordinary complexities. The ’ , British armies were never bigger or more effective. Officers and men are confident and full of fight, and and if the leadership proves ecu a! they will certainly shake Germany’s strength in tne long offensive actions ahead. The French armies are equally confident, though less able to afford the cost of prolonged offensives. The result of the. last French offensive has strengthened the section of French opinion which favours a policy of natience and perseverance until America's expeditionary force overtops the million in 1918. The capacity of the Italians for holding a large section of Austrian forces is unquestioned.

MOVEMENT OF ENEMY TROOPS

The extent of the Allies’ military successes in 1917 depends upon Russia, who has failed to take ner part in the general offensive scheme, alid this has already resulted in the movement of large German and Austrian forces and guns to the west. The best opinion in London and Paris is that General Alexieff will soon be in a position to assume the offensive.

i_ It is noteworthy that Russia’s failure has practically ended] the talk among the armies of peace this year, 'inis, however, underestimates tlie internal condiinons. in the bellgerent countries.

The situation in Russia fluctuates daily. Anarchical disturbances are numerous and general, owing to the absence of a strong Government, but they are principally restricted to areas where the local Workmen and Soldiers’ committees have assumed extreme powers. The disordered food services and strikes in Petrograd are most serious, but it is important to remember that Petrograd is not Russia.

Meanwhile the Russian Workmen and Soldiers executive is endea_ voring to insist upon tlie Stockholm conference, which is undeniably important, because it will bring socialists of the belligerent countries into touch, and it is likely to. disillusion the Russian socialists .regarding Prussia’s war aims. PRICE OF VICTORY.

There is little fear regarding the steadfastness of the British and French public, though the hardships of another war-winter would be intense. Meanwhile the British, heartily pursue the offensive, heroically paying *'fi® P r, ce for the steady reduction of military power.

The naval situation has improved the sinkings have been reduced, whilst a strong offensive against submarines has been initiated, sinking some and harrying many. M. Marcel Rutin calls the Germans’ submarine activity in April and May their “naval Verdun,” which is now simmering.

Many Australians are at present enjoying a well-earned rest.