Francis to Lansing on address to Russian people on US policy on aiding Russia against Germany and material shortages File No. 861.00/1904 [Telegram] Vologda, May 25, 1918 [Received May 29, 12:50 p.m.] 202.     Have given press Lansing's statement in Department's 108, held until now because awaiting your No. 102 received yesterday. In connection therewith have made following statement:     I cannot refrain from saying few words to the Russian people at this juncture being impelled thereto by great peril that threatens their welfare and inspired by noble sentiments expressed by President in soul-stirring address recently delivered in opening another Red Cross appeal for additional hundred million. It is policy my Government not to interfere in internal affairs Russia and that policy not been violated. America entered war to fight for a principle, not territorial conquest nor commercial advantage, and will never lay down arms until all peoples given right self [-determination], until world guaranteed enduring peace. We are conscious our power, resources. We have hardly begun fight. The American people were never so resolute, enthusiastic, unanimous, "knitted together," as well expressed by President in above-mentioned address. This demonstrated by every loan that is asked begin oversubscribed, by every appeal made for work or Y.M.C.A. services or any purely charitable cause, meeting with prompt and abundant response. All these things show spirit of American people.     President in address, in alluding effort Central powers conclude peace at expense Russia, made following sincere, touching allusion to this country, begins: "I intend stand by Russia as well France, etc. It is perhaps for the first time in history an unselfish war." The Allied missions in Russia have been subjected to many inconveniences and perhaps indignities, but are willing endure such in order miss no opportunity assist Russian people and prevent Russia's becoming German province. Speaking for American Embassy, I have never contemplated for moment quitting Russian and repeat as stated memo [some] months ago on ratification Brest treaty, I shall not leave Russia until compelled to do so by force. Notwithstanding attempted repudiation loans made to Russia by my Government, I have persistently encouraged shipment from America to Russia of clothing, agricultural implements, etc., and this writing am endeavoring bring Russia about 750,000 Paris shoes at Pacific port destined for Railway Union and families. I also making strenuous effort have embargo raised exports of tea from China to Russia. Number experienced railroad men now en route to Vologda confer with me and Department Ways, Communication with object improving transportation facilities Russia. This railway commission, composed several hundred men, arrived Vladivostok December and been awaiting instruction there that time to this. Some of them advising concerning operation Chinese Eastern from Vladivostok to Manchuria station, some were requested to aid transportation troops, supplies for Semenov but fulfilment [?] refused consent there and advised me accordingly, so careful are we not to interfere in internal politics Russia. It unnecessary me state that American Railway Commission, while serving ends its mission in improving transportation facilities this country, will have instructions carefully abstain doing anything that will tend promote acquisition of Russian supplies or products by Central Empires, as such effect not only be against our own interest but would not benefit Russian people themselves.     All Americans except those in training for battle field are industriously occupied in manufacturing supplies for America's allies and without boasting I can safely assert that America can furnish not only all manufactured products required by Russia but all such required by Allies which they cannot produce themselves. Francis Documents on US Foreign Policy in Russia [Subject] [Author] [Date]