On Recognition

Action and procrastination on Russian recognition:

Italy. The Marquis of Paterno, Italian representative at Moscow, informed the Soviet Government that it had been recognized by Italy and that an Ambassador would shortly be appointed. Italy thus became the second Power to recognize the Bolshevik regime, the first having been Great Britain (TIME, Feb. 11).

Rumania. A meeting between Rumanian and Russian representatives is to take place at Vienna in March. Subjects to be discussed: the Dniester frontier, the Ukrainian refugee problem, the future of Bessarabia, recognition of the Bolsheviki by Rumania.

Japan. Ex-Minister of Finance Junnosuuke Inouye said: "Japan understands the true meaning of Bolshevism, and further delay in establishing trade and diplomatic relations will be harmful." The Mainkhi of Osaka said: "Russia has now gained a strategic advantage over Japan owing to the recognition accorded her by Britain. . . We ought to be very attentive to the changing situation in Europe." The Tokyo Asahi said: "Woe to our statesmen who have not the keen insight to discern the trend of the times. It is a great pity the State ministers have not the courage to carry out their own convictions. Jealousy and prejudice are ever growing graver detriments to this Empire." There was nothing to indicate that Japan would give immediate attention to the recognition of Russia.

Austria. Chancellor Seipel was reported to have accorded de jure recognition to the Soviet Government at Moscow, and to have handed over the Imperial Russian Embassy in Vienna to the Soviet authorities.

Holland. A despatch said laconically: "The Dutch Government has decided to extend de jure recognition to the Russian Soviet Government." Confirmation was not obtained.

Germany. Forecasting sweeping changes in Russia because of Lenin's death (TIME, Feb. 4), the German Government was reported to be considering the advisability of breaking off diplomatic relations. The recent cancellation of big trading concessions furnishes an excuse for withdrawal of the German Ambassador.

France. France will not recognize Russia until she agrees to recognize her debts to the French State and French citizens. The Soviet Commercial Agency at Paris liquidated its affairs and left the country.