Memorandum to G.K. Ordzhonikidze, February 16, 1921

Source: Tom 17

Baku. Memorandum to Comrade Ordzhonikidze.

From your communication, which, unfortunately, we received incomplete (garbled), we conclude that the Armenian government is waging war against Georgia in defense of the insurgents. It would be desirable to have from you precise confirmation of this for the purpose of informing Europe, as well as confirmation that a Georgian Revolutionary Committee has been formed in connection with the uprising inside Georgia. Then communicate whether the Azerbaijani government is also waging war in defense of insurgents, and of which insurgents in particular. Also, are the rumors true about Georgian atrocities against Tatar insurgents in the area of Salogly-Sogutkhlakhi station and other places? Also communicate whether you have taken measures to ensure that the Russian army commanders, division commanders, and brigade commanders do not permit any interpretation suggesting our campaign against Georgia or the opening of hostilities on the part of the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic -- that they speak precisely and clearly about the defense of the insurgents by local forces. Finally, it is necessary that you inform the press in Baku about the interruption of communications with [garbled], and keep us informed through Rostov [garbled] daily. It is time [garbled], do not send anything. Do not forget the Abkhazians, who are also rising up and near whom stands the Ninth Army. If it is possible to win over the left Georgian Mensheviks through concessions, as was the case in Armenia with the Dashnaks, promise concessions, amnesty, and so forth.

Stalin.

16/II 21.

Source: Bolshevik Leadership. Correspondence. 1912-1927, p. 179.

RGASPI. F. 558. Op. 1. D. 1966. L. 1-4.

NOTE

The reference is to the struggle against the militarist aspirations of the Menshevik White Guard government of Georgia and the support by Red Army units and formations for the numerous insurgent detachments in the Caucasus.