Supplement to Instruction Poll VI 2651, Item II.
Supplementing telegraphic instruction of December 2, the following additional instruction was issued today to all the important missions:
In conversations regarding the Finnish-Russian conflict, you are requested to make use of the following considerations:
Only a few weeks ago Finland was about to come to an understanding with Russia, which might have been achieved by a prudent Finnish policy. An appeal to the League of Nations by the Finnish Government is the least suitable way of solving the crisis.
There is no doubt that British influence on the Finnish Government-partly operating through Scandinavian capitals-induced the Finnish Government to reject Russian proposals and thereby brought on the present conflict. England's guilt in the Russo-Finnish conflict should be especially emphasized.
Germany is not involved in these events. In conversations, sympathy is to be expressed for the Russian point of view. Please refrain from expressing any sympathy for the Finnish position. End of telegraphic instruction.
WEIZSÄCKER