Changes in the Balkans
The whole position in the Balkans has been changing rapidly in swift reaction to the changing balance of power in the East. The relations between the Balkan States had been governed by their fear of Germany or their expecta- tions from her. With the appearance of Russia on the scene as an expansionist Power all that has changed. No Balkan State knows whether it should fear Russia more or Germany. The immediate effect has been to neutralize their own differences and bring them together. Yugoslavia has been using her influence to promote understandings between Hungary and Rumania and between Bulgaria and Turkey. Rumania, which is most obviously in danger from Russia, has been glad to come to terms with Hungary, and on both sides of the common frontier troops have been withdrawn. A marked improvement in her attitude to her Ukrainian minority is another sign of the times. Bulgaria, which has for long been a dark horse in the Balkans, is ceasing to be a cause of anxiety. It has hitherto been her steady policy to hold aloof from the Turkish-Rumanian- Yugoslavian-Greek Entente as long as the southern Dobrudja was denied her ; but now it is she who is reputed to be urging a common Balkan bloc. The countries which presented the greatest difficulties to Balkan unity—Hungary and Bulgaria—are now drawing into line with their neighbours in face of the common danger. And Italy, as the natural patron of the Balkans, is watching in some anxiety.
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