BLAME CAST ON PARAGUAY.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18640, 18 December 1928, Page 4

BLAME CAST ON PARAGUAY.

BOLIVIA EXPLAINS TO M. BRIAND HOW TROUBLE STARTED. (United Press Assn.—By Eflectrie Telegraph—Copyright.) LONDON, December 16. The Bolivian Government sent M. Briand, as Acting-President of the League Council, an explanation of its action on the Paraguayan frontier. It says that Bolivia found it necessary to take precautions, because she feared further frontier clashes. These fears proved to be justified. “ Fresh detachments of Paraguayan troops prepared to attack Bolivian forts, which caused a fresh clash. They were driven back, and our troops occupied Fort Boquen. Paraguay- recently built this fort on territory to which Bolivia has always had an indisputable right. Complying with our international obligations, we hasten to inform the League Council of these developments, which are the natural consequence of Paraguay’s attack. Paraguay stands convicted of breaking pacts and failing in her duty to civilised nations to keep the peace.” As a result of the fighting between Bolivia and Paraguay, the League Council may hold an extraordinary session in Paris.—Australian Press Association—United Service. MESSAGE TO LEGATION. WASHINGTON, December 16. Official advices from the Paraguayan Government to its Legation here on Sunday night stated: “ Bolivia has opened war activities against Paraguay.”—Australian Press Association— United Service.

BOLIVIANS EXCITED OVER THEIR VICTORY.

LA PAZ, December 16. The Bolivian populace is in a high pitch of excitement, due to the official report of the Bolivian victory over Paraguayan troops on the frontier on Saturday. Hopes for a pacific settlement of the trouble have been brought to a low point. There is little response given to the League of Nations’ suggestions for a settlement. A Note addressed to the League stated: “ The encounter w r as the logical consequence of the aggression instituted by Paraguay.” There are unofficial reports of fighting in the Chaco district. It is said that more than 100 Paraguayan soldiers have been killed. The Bolivian losses were light. The Bolivians captured many prisoners.—Australian Press Association.

10,000 MEN VOLUNTEER FOR PARAGUAYAN ARMY. ASUNCION, December 16. The danger of war between Bolivia and Paraguay became more acute- when the Paraguayan population demonstrated in favour of the Government’s mobilisation action, as a result of which over 10.000 men volunteered, amid scenes of great enthusiasm. The capital and provincial districts are gripped by tremendous excitement. Reports state that Bolivian troops are massing in the region of the Mennonite settlement. (The Mennonites went from Canada to settle in the Chaco territory.) It is also reported that a Bolivian aviator dropped four bombs in Paraguayan territory, all of which failed to explode. A number of retired Chilean officials have offered to help Paraguay if necessary.—Australian Press Association. BOLIVIANS DRIVE BACK PARAGUAYAN DEFENDERS. ASUNCION, December 16. Bolivian troops attacked Fort Mariscal Lopez, in the Gran Chaco territory, driving back the Paraguayan defenders, who were forced to retreat after an “ energetic resistance.” It is also reported that Paraguayan troops oc cupying Forts Valoys, Riverola and General Guemes retired to these bases, in view' of the advance of Bolivian troops. Greatly intensified military activity is reported along the frontier. Pope Pius and the King of Spain are among those who have offered their good offices to Bolivia for the settlement of the dispute with Paraguay, according to an announcement by the Foreign Minister, Senor Elio.—Australian Press Association.