Extremely difficult to obtain any clear appreciation of the
significance and probable consequences of the German-Soviet
declaration. [1] There is a feeling that statement 'in the case of
war being continued, joint consultations will take place between
the German and Soviet Governments on the subject of necessary
measures' is probably very much less than the Germans wanted to
obtain and that a military alliance or actual armed assistance by
Soviet to Germany is unlikely. Personally I am not prepared to
express an opinion in view of rapid and startling character of
recent developments.

I have been trying all day to extract the considered view of the
War Cabinet and also an appreciation of the General Staff as to
military position which would be created in the event of Russia
declaring war and cooperating with Germany in military action. I
am quite dissatisfied with what I have obtained. It would help me
greatly if you cabled to me urgently asking me to obtain such view
and appreciation and also information as to reply it is proposed
to make if and when the pronouncement made in statement issued
today is followed by definite action.

BRUCE