TENSION IN THE BALKAN

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21242, 12 October 1940, Page 7

TENSION IN THE BALKAN

PENETRATION BY GERMANS BRITAIN - RUMANIAN RUPTURE EXPECTED EMERGENCY PREPARATIONS NAZIS EVERYWHERI (United Press Assn.—Elec. Tel Copyright) LONDON, Oct. 11 A rupture between Britain and Rumania is now regarded in London as inevitable. Informed quarters in London, Bucharest and Berlin consider it may be only a matter of hours. British subjects in Rumania have been urged to leave if they can, or at least to be ready to leave at the shortest notice. A large bonfire is burning in the grounds of the British Legation, and other British organisations are preparing for any emergency.

Rumanians profess astonishment at the serious British view of the events of the last few days, and the Prime Minister, General Antonescu, reiterated to the British Ambassador, Sir Reginald Hoare, that only German instructional troops are expected in Rumania.

But German officers are appearing everywhere and making extensive arrangements for billeting and food supplies, and the Rumanian military authorities confirm that the preparations are commensurate with the entry of large German forces.

Anglo-Rumanian Talks

According to reports reaching London the object of the further interview of Sir Reginald Hoare, British Ambassador to Rumania, with General Antonescu last night was to ask for the elucidation of German military activity in Rumania. Trustworthy information regarding the development of the situation there is still scanty, and reports which are current are treated with reserve in official circles here, pending confirmation.

The gravity of the position, however, is by no means minimised. Little doubt is entertained that although there may have been some exaggeration regarding the numbers ot' German troops which have entered Rumania the new Government there displays readiness to fall in with the wishes of Nazi authorities to establish specialist troops, fully equipped, including anti-aircraft guns at strategic points on the oilfields and the coast.

Apparently they are preparing the way for an invasion by regular divisions, which, according to the latest unofficial reports, are now on the way.

The procedure adopted closely resembles that followed in other parts of German-occupied Europe.

Recent events in other countries are also regarded as justifying credence to reports from neutral countries suggesting tnat the occupation of Bulgaria by similar means is contemplated when the moment is deemed appropriate.

Information reaching London from Athens and Ankara suggests that Greece and Turkey are watching developments calmly.

The attitude of the Soviet towards the German drive in the direction of the Straits, in the safety of which Russia has a traditional concern, is not disclosed.