Axis Aggression in Balkans

Manawatu Times, Volume 66, Issue 4, 6 January 1941, Page 5

Axis Aggression in Balkans

No Confirmation of Troop Movements ATTEMPT TO INTIMIDATE TURKEY AND BULGARIA (British Official Wireless.) Received Sunday, 6.30 p.m. RUGBY, Jan. 4. There is still no confirmation of recent reports of German preparations for new aggression in the Balkans. The more sensational of the rumours whicn have been circulating are attributed by w'ell-informed observers to Nazi inspiration, but that does not dispose of the possioility that they may have some foundation. There is no doubt of the steady movement of German troops into Rumania. It is true the weather conditions are not fa\ arable to a German military advance and Hiller may feel the need to counteract tne stiffening influence of the Greek successes against Italy and preparations for sudden action at a more favourable moment might have the double purpose of weakening the morale of the Balkan States meanwhile and of making a new onslaught easy if circumstances proved it to be desirable.

Certainly there are signs of renewed Axis pressure on Turkey though the constant firmness of Turkish policy might have convinced the Axis partners beiore now ot the uselessness of their efforts to obtain the compliance of the Turkish Government.

Nazi intrigue has also been resumed in Bulgaria. While the Buriagian Government desires to preserve its neutrality, what will be the result of these machinations it is impossible to forecast.