TELEGRAM FROM V.I. LENIN AND L.D. TROTSKY TO I.N. SMIRNOV1

January 13, 1920

In code

Omsk. To the Chairman of the Siberian Revolutionary Committee, Smirnov

The formation of a German-Hungarian division from steadfast and disciplined elements is highly advisable. If possible, it would be desirable to create a German-Hungarian cavalry unit, a brigade—if not a division.

Regarding the representations of Japan and the United States, it is necessary to make full use of their antagonism. You should seek contact with the American representatives, making them understand that we assess the policies of Japan and the United States in Siberia differently, considering that Japan aims for territorial acquisitions, which lead to uprisings, military resistance, and chaos, whereas America seeks economic concessions, which in no way raise fundamental objections. In doing so, there is no need to overly engage the central government, taking responsibility for current issues on the Siberian Revolutionary Committee.

On the matter of banknotes, you are being sent a copy of Comrade Krestinsky's telegram to Comrade Frumkin: "In December, 2,300 million were sent to you from Moscow, and 400 million from Yekaterinburg. Starting in January, we will send you 2,000 million monthly, and if you agree to receive 50 percent in 5,000 and 10,000 ruble notes (currently, we are sending 30-35 percent), then 2,500 million. After the start of the Perm Expedition1* (we hope, from February 1st), we will provide 3,000 million."

Concerning the twenty-seventh division, an additional response will be provided2.

January 13, 1920

Chairman of the Council of Defense                                                                             Lenin.

Chairman of the Revolutionary Military Council                                                      Trotsky.

Published in — The Trotsky papers. 1917-1922. V. 2, p. 8-10.

Fund 2, op. 1, file 12528 — original.

1* State Sign Production Expedition

1 In January 1920, the III International Division began to form, but only the 1st International Regiment under the command of István Varga was formed. This regiment took up the guard of the train carrying the gold reserve of the RSFSR to Kazan on April 12.

2 The 27th Rifle Division participated in the liberation of Siberia until the end of June 1920. For the liberation of Siberia and the city of Omsk, it was awarded the Honorary Red Banner.