I have no verified new information, except that the Germans, generally speaking, are advancing steadily, inasmuch as they encounter no resistance. I consider the situation extraordinarily serious and the slightest delay is inadmissible on our part. As for the report concerning Austria-Hungary's non-participation in the war, I personally, in contrast to Trotsky, do not consider this report verified. They say that radio messages were intercepted and there were telegrams about this from Stockholm, but I have not seen such documents myself.

"Izvestia of the Soviets of Workers', Soldiers' and Peasants' Deputies of the City of Moscow and Moscow Region," No. 31, February 23 (10), 1918

Printed from the text of the telegraph tape