U.S. Makes Offer To Mediate

Northern Advocate, 30 November 1939, Page 5

U.S. Makes Offer To Mediate

(Received 2.30 p.m.) LONDON, November 29

The United States Secretary of State (Mr Cordell Hull) in. a formal statement, said the United States was willing to extend its good offices in settling the Russo-Finnish dispute, says a Washington message. “This Government is following with serious concern the intensification of the Russo-Finnish dispute, and would view with extreme regret any extension of the present area of war, and consequent further deterioration in international relations. “Too Late.”

“Without in any way becoming involved in the merits of the dispute, and limiting its interests to the solution of the dispute by peaceful processes, the Government would, if it was agreeable to both parties, gladly extend its good offices,” said Mr Hull,

The news that Russia had broken off diplomatic relations with Finland caused a sensation in Helsingfors. Cabinet was summoned at midnight.. One official said Mr Hull’s offer came too late. Mr Hull’s statement w.as not sent to either Russia or Finland.

It is emphasised that it should not be interpreted as an offer to mediate, but merely as an indication of the United States willingness to do anything in its power to avert hostilities.