THE POLISH OFFENSIVE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 17459, 1 May 1920, Page 7

THE POLISH OFFENSIVE.

AUSPICIOUS BEGINNING.

BOLSHEVIKS LOSE HEAVILY. HELP FOR UKRAINIA. By Telegraph-Piea* Association-Copyright. (Received 11.30 p.m.) A. and N.Z. ' LONDON, April 29. The opening of a Polish-Ukrainian offensive in Volhynia and Podolia explains the recent closing of the Polish frontiers. It is understood that the Bolsheviks during the past six weeks have been attacking heavily. General Pilsudski, the Polish commander, declined to attack until the weather improved and everything was in readiness. Preparations for the offensive were carried out, with the greatest secrecy. The offensive was launched on the 25th, with immediate success. The Poles quickly captured Jitomir and several important villages at the southern end of their front. Decisive successes continued the following day, when large quantities of booty, particularly Tolling stock, were captured. It is reported that the defeated Bolsheviks numbered 56 divisions. Many prisoners were taken.

General Pilsudski, in a proclamation, stales that the object of the attack is to support the Ukrainians in driving out the Bolshevik invaders. A Bolschvik communique vaguely claims successes along the whole fronts Almost simultaneously General Wraugel, who is now in command of the remnants of General Denikin's army, on the Crimean front, began an attack to the north, and heavily defeated the Bolsheviks. A big haul of prisoners and guns is claimed. This success clears the road from the Crimea.

Advices from Berlin state that the antiBolshevik movement in Ukrainia is spreading, and becoming more organised. The various leaders are likely to come to an agreement with General Wrangel.