LATE NEWS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24003, 29 December 1939, Page 6

LATE NEWS

THE MANNERHEIM LINE RUSSIAN ATTACK COLLAPSES HELSINKI, Dec. 28. (Received Dec. 29, at 2 a.m.) A Russian onslaught is expected to be launched on several fronts in an effort to force a decision before the snow prevents it. The Russian attempt to penetrate the Mannerheim Line near Wiipuri appears to have collapsed. Wave after wave of assault troops lost their lives on frozen lakes, which guns smashed beneath their feet. The Russians continue their aerial activity, while long-range howitzers shell Wiipuri. The Finns note that the Russians take little care of their wounded, who are left to die from cold and exposure. This indifference is exemplified by the absence of identification badges, which are customary in all other armies. NORWAY'S POLICY NON-INTERVENTION OSLO, Dec. 28.' (Received Dec. 29, at 2 a.m.) The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs (Dr Koht), broadcasting, defended Norway's policy of non-intervention in the SovietFinnish conflict, emphasising that Norway was unable to pursue the other course because the whole defence system was based on neutrality, and adventures might be fatal to her. THE WESTERN FRONT CHRISTMAS LULL ENDS LONDON, Dec. 27. (Received Dec. 28, at 9.30 p.m.) The Christmas lull on the Western Front has ended. The fog lifted, and both sides sent out numerous reconnaissance parties, particularly between the Luxembourg frontier and the Saar River, with the object of discovering whether the lull had been employed to make important changes or reinforce outposts. Contact with the enemy involving sustained fighting is reduced to a minimum. It is pointed out that another 60 days at the most remain before winter conditions in the military sense cease to exist. The Allies must be prepared for an enemy offensive at the end of February at the latest.