893.00/8–2146: Telegram
The Ambassador in China (Stuart) to the Secretary of State
[Received August 21—6 a.m.]
1346. Radio broadcast from San Francisco received here states Communists have made open declaration of existence of state of war. This would appear to be misinterpretation of UP story filed Nanking August 19.
On August 18 Communist controlled radio Kalgan issued on behalf Communist headquarters Yenan a mobilization order calling upon military leaders and people of all Communist based areas to organize themselves to resist any incursions Central Govt forces into the base areas and to prepare against air attacks. Communist Delegation, Nanking, vociferously deny that this action constitutes declaration of existence state of war and state that it is only a notice to Communist controlled areas to exercise right of self-defence against Central Govt.
[Page 61]While technically perhaps the Communist announcement is not a declaration of war, in the present tense situation existing the mobilization order is virtually such a declaration and is further indicated on the gradual deterioration of overall situation. Intensification of hostilities in north Kiangsu and Shansi may be anticipated unless there is immediate overall politico-military agreement, the difficulties of attaining which the Dept. is aware.
Department please repeat to Moscow.