Rumania's Situation
Whatever may be the specific economic purpose of the German forces and technicians in Galicia, it is perfectly clear that their presence has military and political signifi- cance also. First, it will be noted that it brings German troops into direct contact with the Rumanian frontier, and therefore gives them the means of applying pressure in that quarter in a way that appeared to be denied them last September when the Russians marched in. Second, their presence in that area interposes a wedge between the Soviet zone and Hungary, and gives Germany a plausible reply to Italy, who had promised to protect Hungary against Russia if Hungary would refrain from attacking Rumania. The German reply is—It is we who will protect Hungary. How far the agreement with Russia goes under which these German movements have been made is uncertain, and in its military and political aspect it may have only a limited objective—to bring the pressure of a joint menace from Russia and Germany to bear on the Balkan States before the Balkan Entente conference this week can produce results. That menace is formidable and obvious. But though both of the big Powers may join in threatening the Balkan States, having a common interest in preventing them from uniting, at that point this common interest ends. It is inconceivable that the Soviet Government could view with equanimity a German stranglehold on Rumania, and Germany, desiring to control the Balkans herself, cannot wish to promote Russian control. A condominium has been suggested. But one or the other would have to play second fiddle.
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