Letter to L.M. Kaganovich, V.M. Molotov, September 23, 1931

Source: Tom 17

To Kaganovich. To Molotov.

1) Most probably, Japan's intervention is being carried out by agreement with all or some of the great powers on the basis of an expansion and consolidation of spheres of influence in China.

2) It is unlikely, though not impossible, that America will raise a serious fuss in defense of Zhang Xueliang against Japan, since under the present circumstances it can secure "its share" in China even without a conflict with Japan, even with the consent of the Chinese themselves.

3) It is possible, and even probable, that the Japanese have the consent for the intervention from certain influential Chinese militarist groups, such as the Feng Yuxiang group or the Yan Xishan group or the old Mukden-faction elements of the Zhang Zuolin type, or all of these groups together.

4) Our military intervention is, of course, out of the question, and diplomatic intervention at this time is not advisable, since it would only unite the imperialists, whereas it is to our advantage for them to quarrel among themselves.

5) We should certainly inquire of the Japanese so that they keep us informed of events, but at the same time we should inquire of the Chinese, at least through Harbin.

6) In the press we must conduct ourselves in such a way that there is no doubt whatsoever that we are wholeheartedly opposed to the intervention. Let Pravda rail to the fullest against the Japanese occupiers, against the League of Nations as an instrument of war and not of peace, against the Kellogg Pact as an instrument for justifying occupation, against America as a supporter of the partition of China. Let Pravda proclaim loudly that the imperialist pacifists of Europe, America, and Asia are dividing and enslaving China. Izvestia must pursue the same line but in a moderate and exceedingly cautious tone. A moderate tone for Izvestia is absolutely essential.

7) The Comintern press, and the Comintern in general, should be especially sharpened.

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Source: Stalin and Kaganovich. Correspondence. 1931-1936, pp. 116-117.

RGASPI. F. 558. Op. 11. D. 76. L. 76, 76 ob.