Regarding the Current Situation and the Conditions for Participating in the Government, Telegram to Zhou Enlai (February 3, 1945)

Zhou:

(1) The two telegrams of Zi 30 and the Chou Dong telegram have all been received.

(2) The enemy is preparing to attack Dianyang, Gaoping, and Laokai, and has already reinforced with one division, with follow-up forces seemingly still to come; Ganzhou and Nanxiong may fall. The enemy is now mopping up the coastal areas to make it impossible to supply the Guomindang when the U.S. forces land. Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin are already in conference, and results will be seen in a few days. The Red Army is pressing close to Berlin, and the people and progressive parties of all countries are greatly gaining in momentum. The possibility of the Soviet Union participating in Eastern affairs is growing. Under such circumstances, both the United States and Chiang Kai-shek are anxious to reach a political compromise with us.

(3) Please clearly tell the Guomindang and the minor parties: Unless there is an explicit decree abolishing one-party dictatorship, an explicit decree recognizing the legality of all anti-Japanese parties, an explicit decree abolishing the secret service organs and secret service activities, permitting the people genuine freedom, releasing political prisoners, lifting the blockade, recognizing the Liberated Areas, and organizing a truly democratic coalition government, it will be extremely difficult for us to participate in the government (this point is to be conveyed orally, without making any written statement). As for the name, composition, and format of the conference, they can be considered at length.

(4) After receiving this telegram, please return to Yan’an immediately. There are new opinions to discuss in person.

Mao Zedong