St. Petersburg, Winter Palace, in the conference room, the members of Bolshevik Supreme Council were all sitting at the conference table. Everyone holds a copy of Telegram sent back from Brest by Trotsky. The content of Telegram is the tough attitude of Germany and the conditions proposed by Germany. Of course, the harsh conditions put forward by Germany made all the leaders of Bolshevik Party stupid.
"Germany people are clearly talking nonsense. We absolutely cannot accept such conditions. Otherwise, Russia will be completely reduced to a second-rate small country." Kamenev's face was red and angry.
If Bolshevik Party accepts Germany's conditions, they will not only lose millions of square kilometers of territory, but also 40% of the country's population and more than half of its industry. Coupled with the loss of resources, this will make Russia completely lose the capital to become a big country! These Bolshevik Party leaders do not want the country they will command in the future to become like this.
Ulyanov, also looked livid. He was also frightened by the appetite of Germany people. Originally, he thought that even if Germany wanted to kill Russia, he would not be too harsh. After all, Bolshevik Party is not a fool, so how could he agree to such harsh conditions? But now, Ulyanov had to admit that he really underestimated the appetite of Germany. He clearly wanted to eat less than half of Russia in one bite! And it's still the most essential half.
Ulyanov, obviously cannot accept such conditions. However, he was a little worried. What serious consequences will there be if you reject the conditions of Germany people? If German military launches an attack on Russia, can they withstand it? Will their revolution fail because of this? By then, people like them may not only lose their lives, but their ideals will also have no chance of success.
This makes Ulyanov worry about gains and losses.
Maybe people are like this. Before they succeed, they can still work hard and move forward. However, after success, one becomes hesitant and worried about gains and losses. Even Leader like Ulyanov will inevitably have problems in this regard.
Joseph is actually a little lucky that this drudgery did not fall on him. Otherwise, he would be the one who is worried now. Being able to dig a hole for Trotsky, a powerful opponent, Joseph is still very satisfied.
Although, the members of the Supreme Committee are now filled with righteous indignation, scolding Germany for being despicable and shameless, and the lion's mouth is wide open. However, Joseph knew that under the threat of Germany, they had no choice but to compromise.
Sure enough, after everyone scolded Germany righteously, Ulyanov began to ask everyone for their opinions.
"Everyone, do we agree to the harsh conditions of Germany? If we don't agree, what will be the consequences? Let's analyze it carefully!" Ulyanov said.
"Leader, Germany's conditions are too harsh, we absolutely cannot agree to it!" Kamenev immediately expressed strong opposition.
Immediately, several more committee members expressed their agreement. They also believed that the conditions offered by Germany were too harsh and insincere. If they agree to such conditions, they will inevitably become Russia sinners.
At this time, Joseph spoke, "Everyone, if we don't agree to the conditions of the Germany people, what actions will the Germany people take? Are we able to bear the consequences?"
Joseph's words were like a bomb, making everyone speechless. Everyone knows that what Joseph said makes perfect sense. After all, Germany is so powerful now. After rejecting Germany, it means that you will be prepared to bear the wrath of Germany. No one dares to guarantee whether he can withstand Germany's anger.
After all, the current Bolshevik Party is still too weak. Although the armed forces they control are numerous. But in front of the powerful German military, they are just a mob. German military's record on the Eastern Front is not unknown to them. Russia's most elite standing army at the time was no match for German military. Not to mention them now.
"Everyone, especially now that we are facing internal and external troubles, it is even more important to handle this matter properly. Otherwise, everyone has to think carefully about the consequences!" Joseph continued.
Sure enough, the expressions on many people's faces became very solemn.
"Joseph, are you advocating that we should accept blackmail from Germany people? In that case, how is it different from being a traitor?" Kamenev retorted.
"Comrade Kamenev, I am not betraying the country, I am considering the interests of the party. We have worked so hard to get to this point, it is not easy! How many of our comrades were killed by Tsar Nicholas II for the success of the revolution? If we touch If Germany is so angry that German military attacks us aggressively and our revolution fails, we will never have a chance again." Joseph looked like he was thinking about the party and the cause.
However, Joseph's words did resonate with many people. Bolshevik Party It is undoubtedly very difficult to get to where we are today. Before, Tsar Nicholas II had always suppressed and persecuted them, and I don't know how many people lost their lives because of this. Even Ulyanov was not exiled to Siberia? I almost lost my life.
"Hmph! Joseph, you are alarmist. The Germany people are busy fighting wars with Britain and France, the two Empire countries, and there will be no spare power to deal with us." Kamenev is not so easily persuaded.
"Indeed, the main force of Germany people will not be used on us. However, even if they only send a group army to attack us, we may not be able to resist it, right? What's more, Austro-Hungarian Empire is also eyeing us. Although their previous attack was defeated, no one can guarantee that they will come back. If German military attacks us, Austro-Hungarian Empire will definitely join them. When the time comes, the consequences will be very serious. Besides, if Germany wins the war in the future, they will definitely attack us with all their strength. At that time, will we have the power to fight against them? So, I think it is better to sign a contract with Germany as soon as possible and withdraw from the war!" Joseph continued.