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Hokitika Guardian, 30 April 1926, Page 2

The Hussion Soviet is moving very » adroitly in international politics. The trade agreement with Germany is a case in point-, and it is not surprising to find that Russia is rejoicing at the success so far as it has gone. It was an opportune time to approach Germany according to schedule. Germany because of the recent failure of the League of Nations to admit Germany, as it were, has had its revenge, for it is apparent the new agreement will have some complicating effect on the clauses of the League policy. There are those who aver that the Locarno ideal i.s lost, and there is much concern in some European countries who looked for settled peace as some relief from the eternal condition of interest with warlike or menacing neighbours across the border. The Soviet plan to retaliate against the anti-Russian sting in the Locarno Treaty i.s .successful so far. It is quite a considerable victory to secure the trade alliance with Germany, and the Russians are gratified. Those responsible for the delay in admitting Germany to the League of Nations are guilty of a step which might have serious consequences internationally. The action of Germany will require justification in the light of the negotiations for entry to the League, and the event is sure to hive a disquieting effect generally. The Russian tactics are to proceed further, and there are now negotiations with France in respect to the settlement of the debts. This is a very large issue, and if successful in the overtures, it is not likely Russia will rest, but will endeavour to carry trade negotiations further. There was the suggestion that the British Dominions were to be asked to enter into separate treaties with the Soviet, as the existing British trade agreement was considered too cumbersome to be used to

advantage by the dominions and Russia. If the outcome were a new born Russia, the present negotiations would give more satisfaction internationally, but that is not apparent at present. The negotiations previously with Great Britain will be recalled, and the length they went till they broke down exposing rather the fact as to a want of honafides on the part of the Russian representatives. Till the good faith or the Russian negotiations is made apparent there will he a feeling of disquiet as to these international excursions of the Soviet in Europe and elsewhere.