V. I. Lenin

Telegram To J. V. Stalin

To Comrade Stalin, Member of the Revolutionary Military Council of the South-Western Front

By direct line

Moscow, February 20

The situation on the Caucasian Front is assuming a more serious
character. In the situation obtaining today we may possibly lose
Rostov and Novocherkassk and the enemy may attempt to develop his
successes further to the north and threaten the Donets area. Adopt
exceptional measures to hasten the transfer of the 42nd and the
Latvian divisions and strengthen their fighting potential. I
expect that you will appreciate the general situation and bend all
your efforts to achieve important results.

Lenin