The Molotov-Malenkov group favoured seeking diplomatic negotiations to ascertain Germany's real intentions, said diplomats. The Timo-she-ko group, on the contrary, wanted to match German mobilization along the Russian frontiers by mobilizing two Russian divisions for every German division, thereby replying by demonstration if Germany was merely_ demonstrating, or by grouping forces where they would be needed if Germany meant to attack, The "Journal de Genève" said that the first clash of the two groups occurred May 12 at a meeting of the Supreme Military Council, Marshal Timoshenko presided and M, Stalin was present, along with other members of the political bureau, it was reported, M. Stalin compromised by instructing the military men to do everything necessary and to be fully prepared. He at the same time supported M, Molotov by urging that diplomatic efforts be made to obtain fuller information regarding German intentions, According to reports in diplomatic circles there have been frequent disputes of policy since that time, with the most ardent disputants being Marshal Timoshenko and M, Malenkev.
Their bitterest clash occurred recently when Marshal Timoshenko named 12 new military governors of principal cities including Kieve, Leningrade and Moscow. M, Malenkov intervened and objected to the choices named, According to diplomatic sources the dispute was not settled when war began and mobilization started in a feverish atmosphere,—United Press.
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