1 MAY 1926, Page 3

The text of the Russo-German Treaty has been published, together

with the Notes exchanged between Herr Stresemann and the Soviet Ambassador in Berlin. The first article of the Treaty declares that the basis of the relations between Germany and Russia remains the Treaty of Rapallo. This is vague, as the Rapallo Treaty did no more than maintain diplomatic relations and renounce mutual financial claims. The second article provides for the neutrality of both countries in the event of either being attacked. The third provides for neutrality if a Coalition should attempt to impose upon either " an economic or financial boycott "—vague again. Is the League referred to ? The misgivings which were aroused when the negotiations for this Treaty were first reported continue and have indeed become more intense. France is particularly anxious. Germany has given her word, however, that there is nothing in the Treaty that conflicts in any way with the Loearno Treaty. ' We hope and on the whole believe that this is so. But it is only natural that concern should be expressed when we find Germany, who ought to enter the League in the autumn, concluding a Treaty with so openly avowed an enemy of the League as the Soviet.

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