BATTLE FOR MADRID

Kaikoura Star, Volume LVI, Issue 90, 16 November 1936, Page 3

BATTLE FOR MADRID

REBELS’ ULTIMATUM EXPIRES INTENSE BOMBARDMENT RESUMED LONDON, November 12. The bombardment of Madrid was resumed with increased intensity last night, shells exploding all over the city. The bombardment is believed to be an indication that General Franco holds that his ultimatum to the city to surrender has expired. Madrid now faces destruction, according to General Franco. 4 ‘ The bombardment will continue until Madrid surrenders,” he said. “The city will have to be destroyed, district by district, no matter how much I regret it. Unexpected and infurited resistance forces me to this course.” Early this morning fires were raging in the centre of the capital. According to a Paris message Le Matin alleges that two Soviet ships are on their way to Spain from Sebastopol, laden with tanks, aeroplanes, ammunition, and modern plant for manufacturing poison gas. Russian chemical engineers and airmen arc on board. An earlier message said: “A lull in the artillery fire on the central Spanish front seems to presage either a slight withdrawal by the besiegers, who are definitely on the defensive, or preparations for launching an attack by the Government.” The people of Madrid are jubilant at the recapture of Lower Carabanchel by the loyalists, and the success of the “Victory Column” in holding up the insurgent advance. Government aircraft are definitely threatening the rebels’ aerial supremacy. Though it is too early to prophesy the turn of the tide, the Government, with substantial reinforcements of men and arms, particularly from Barcelona, may shortly take the offensive.