THE EUROPEAN SITUATION.

Otago Witness, Issue 1843, 18 March 1887, Page 9

THE EUROPEAN SITUATION.

• (Eeuter's Telegrams.) ' St.- Petersburg, March 9. The semi-official Journal de Petersburg publishes a violent article on the subject of recent events in' Bulgaria, and declares that the limits of Russia's patience have been sxcieded, ' . , ,' . • , Sofia, March 9. • It has tranapiied that a . Russian circular ■was despatched "prior to the execution at Rustahulc " asking the influence of the representatives of the Powers to prevent " atrooities." The circular was not received here until after' the executions had taken place, Eleven and 1320 men of the Bulgarian army have been sentenced to .various terms of penal servitude for participating in the recent rising at Rustchuk. -. - Beblin, March 11. M.-de Lesseps, who arrived in this city on a special mission from the French Government, has been received by tho Court in a most flattering manner. The fact is regarded as indicating a -probability of an amicable understanding between France and Germany. (Special 1 to Press Association.) London, March 9. It is rumoured that the treaty between Austria, Germany, and Italy contemplates offensive as well as defensive action. It is generally understood • that the prospects of peace are increasing, though the Cominential Powers aro continuing their warlike prdparatiohs. Further disturbances are expected, both in Bulgaria and-Servia. The Pope has^ again offered his services as mediator in the Bulgarian difficulty. March 11. In the House of Commons last night Mr Heaton asked a question in reference to the statement published, a short time ago that Russia was.inassing troops near the frontier of Afghanistan., The Under-secretary for Foreign Affairs said that according to the latest official information the operations in question had ceased and the troops wcro being distributed over Russian territory. The Bulgarian difficulty appears to be no nearer settlement, the negotiations being almost, at a standstill. It is, however, again affirmed that Russia, for the present at least, will abstain from meddling with the affairs of that country. There has been marked exchange of courtesies between the Russian and German The European outlook is irapro'ving. March 13. Fourteen rebel sergeants have been shot at Rustchuk. The Russian press declare that Russia is quite unready for war. The Septennial clause of the German Army Bill has been passed. The .Neve .Deutsche Gazette states that Russia has determined not to compromise her liberty of action by entering into any further engagements as to her course of action with regard to Bulgaria. March 14. M. Kraveloff and others arrested with him for conspiracy have been released on bail in order to conciliate Rnssia. The Austrian Government are massing 70,000 troops in Lemberg, a city o£ Galicia.