FIGHTING IN MANCHURIA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20333, 14 August 1929, Page 11

FIGHTING IN MANCHURIA.

REPORT FROM FRONTIER.

SOVIET TROOPS ATTACK.

CHINESE RETURN FIRE.

SITUATION VERY CRITICAL

Auatrtilinn and N.Z. Press Association. (Received August H, 1,15 a.m.) HONGKONG. Aug. 13,

A sensational report came from Chinese sources to-day, stating that fighting broke out between tlio Russian and Chineso 11oops on (he frontier at Manchuli yesterday morning. The report asserts that the Soviet troops were demonstrating with tanks on tho border, when suddenly I hey wheeled, crossed the frontier, and opened lire on Kirin troops with machine-guns. The Chinese retaliated, and the fighting lasted for an hour, there being casualties on either side.

It is further alleged that (hero has been fighting at several points on tlio frontier, although this is not confirmed officially. The reports of this fighting in Manchuria are most persistent, and from sources usually reliable. A message from Manchuli, sent yesterday, reports two skirmishes between Soviet and Chinese troops on tho border." Both sides had slight casualties. Chinese cavalry scouts were attacked by Soviet machine-gunners, who replied. r lhe exact number of casualties is unknown.

Thi« report, which tho Japanese confirmed from an independent foreign agency, adds that tho clashes occupied two hours.

Two Chinese were killed and ten severely wounded in the vicinity of Kirin, according to information emanating from the Nanking Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tho Soviet is massing heavy military forces along tho frontier and they have frequently invaded Chinese soil, apparently to precipitate war. 'llio situation is regarded as extremely critical. The Chinese generals commanding the frontiers are repeatedly asking for instructions in the event of the Soviet attacks becoming more serious. Nanking has ordered strict forbearance and selfrestraint.