V. I.

Lenin

241

TELEGRAM TO I. T. SMILGA AND G. K. ORJONIKIDZE

In code
March 17, 1920

Smilga and Orjonikidze
R.M.C., Caucasus Front

It is extremely, extremely necessary for us to take Baku.
Devote all your efforts to this, and in your statements
you must be particularly diplomatic and make maximum sure that a firm local Soviet authority is ready. The same
applies to Georgia, though I advise you to be even more
careful there. Come to an understanding with the
Commander-in-Chief about transfer of troops.

Lenin