NationStates Jolt Archive

Parthini']IC: In response to the positive reaction to the relocation, Germany, with the consent of the Venezuelan government, has declared Venezuela to be a protectorate, and therefore, should any government unlawfully attack Venezuela, it would be an attack on socialism itself.

Germany has also reccomended that Venezuela sign the Pan-American Treaty.

the Crisis is created when Germany declares this action.

This is a close RP, you must join via this thread and invite afterward to participate, and please try to keep posts IC as much as possible.

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9642988#post9642988

Orders rapidly go out from the Navy Department in Washington

American cruisers, gunboats, submarines and destroyers immediately began leaving port or shifting patrol stations, while the US fleet, which was concentrated near San Juan (Puerto Rico) after completing gunnery exercises with Colombian naval vessels, also began shifting.

The Caribbean Squadron, with 2 light cruisers and 2 destroyer flotillas (10 destroyers each) took up station 50 miles off the Venezuelan coast, while several submarines and 6 gunboats took off station 20 miles offshore from the principal Venezulean ports.

At Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, the US Battleforce, with 15 battleships and 40 destroyers, plus assorted support ships, was ready to sortie should the Germans seek battle.

In the Atlantic, Scouting Force Atlantic, with 2 carriers, 4 cruisers, and 20 destroyers organized into 2 task forces patrolled, with the McKinley task group watching the Azores, and the Washington task group watching Iceland.

Submarines also sortied from Groton and formed a picket line along the American coast.

In the United States, President Cox addressed Congress.

"Once again the Germans show their true colors. Monarchist or Socialist, it doesn't seem to matter. They intend to create a colony in our hemisphere by declaring Venezuela a procterate. They claim we are responsible because we will no longer sell them helium. But what do they want it for? Why to build more Zeppelins to carry aircraft and to drop bombs. To wage war with. No. This will not be allowed to stand.

I therefore ask Congress to support my call for a state of National Emergency. That Congress authorize the immediate federalizing of the National Guard, that all reserves be immediately called up, and that funds be voted to provide for the common defense. In addition, I ask Congress to be prepared to declare that a state of war exists between Germany and the United States if the Germans attempt to breach the blockade and quarantine that I have ordered."

The measure passed by acclamation.

Note passed to the German Ambassador in Washington DC, and by the US Ambassador in Berlin to the German government. Also provided to the Venezualan government. Copies of the note are provided to all treaty nations of the Pan American Treaty (which includes Colombia, Britian, Chile, France), plus Japan.

"Germany has violated the Monroe Doctrine and the Pan American Treaty. Effective immediately, the United States does declare that the nation of Venezuela is under immediate blockade, and that no passenger ships or warships will be allowed to enter the ports of that nation. In addition, the goverment of Venezuela is no longer recognized by the United States goverment. Therefore, under the Monroe Doctrine, the United States is therefore prepared to remove this government and remove all Germans from that nation. German or Russian ships that attempt to break this blockade, or aircraft that attempt to do the same, will be intercepted, and if they do not follow orders, will be engaged and sunk or destroyed. Furthermore, any German warship or Zeppelin found west of the 60th Meridian after the next 48 hours will be considered to have hostile intent unless it is leaving the area and under escort by American or one of its allied warships."

From: Hakaan VII of Norway
To: All involved nations

I plead with Germany to back down and withdraw the claim for a protectorate over Venezuela , this is just the spark that could blow into a war that will surely affect everyone worldwide, have the lessons of the Great War been forgotten so quickly? Due to Norways relative closeness to Germany I have no choice but to place Norwegian North sea fleet on full alert.

Honorable gentlemen of the United States Congress, this overwhelming response is uncalled for. Our German Comrades have certainly erred in declaring a "Protectorate" over Venezuela (nor did they, as required by law, consult with the General Council at Warsaw before doing so, and we have issue with them in that regard), but is defining Venezuela as a colony not what Washington itself is doing by its precipitous actions? Have the Venezuelans been consulted on any of this?
The American people have a reputation for sympathy to the downtrodden and oppressed. By this blockade, the Venezuelans shall be the ones to suffer for the arrogance of both Berlin and Washington. We beseech you, do not treat the Venezuelan people as pawns, but rather as men.
Let us not resort first to cannonfire. Militarism ill becomes a people who love liberty, as history has shown time and again.

- A.F. Kerensky, Premier of the Union of Social-Democratic Republics

The US government points out that cargo ships are free to come and go, and passenger ships can leave. Only warships and passenger ships are prohibited from entering Venezulean waters.

The language of the announcement mentions any German or Russian ship (and how has Moscow offended, exactly? Does not your own Constitution prohibit guilt by association?), which would presumably include those carrying, say, quinine, as well as any carrying immigrants. It seems to me an egregious violation of another nation's sovereignty to forcefully interfere with its immigration policy in any event. Protest, by all means, but blockade? And threat of war?
And what, also, of the United States' ominous declaration that "the United States is therefore prepared to remove this government and remove all Germans from that nation"? That, sir, would be a monstrous action in human terms. I insist that the American people are better than this.

British Response:

Militarily:

In response to the situation the British South Atlantic fleet mobilises. It is ordered from patrols and bases and out to sea. They hold 20nm offshore from Venezuela (just outside international waters) and await further orders. Currently the fleet consists of just 3 battleships, 15 cruisers, 40 destroyers and a couple of carriers alongside numerable gunboats and corvettes. It is joined by the Carribean Fleet (quite small) whcih adds a few extra cruisers and destroyers. Approximately 15 subs are allocated to the area to patrol and react to any threats. More warships are arriving all the time from scattered ports to add to this fleet.

The Home fleet is ordered out of Scapa Flow and increases patrols in home waters (particularly in the North Sea). Likewise in the meditteranean and Pacific fleets.

The reserves and territorial army are called out in Britain and colonial militias are armed in all the colonies. The Merchant Navy is ordered to ready itself for a war footing and production is stepped up in factories across the Empire.

Troop formations on the Chinese and Russian borders are secretly strengthened and supplied.

Diplomatically:

Britain advises all British citizens to leave Venezuela, Germany and Russia as soon as possible. All foreign powers are reminded that if any British Citizen's safety is compromised then retaliation will be forthcoming.

Britian passes a message to Germany via diplomatic channels to request that they witdraw any claim to Venezuala. The British Embassys in Germany and Russia are advised to prepare for the immediate destruction of all secret documentation and resources (ie. code machines) in case the situation deteriorates further and war is inevitable.

Britain reminds the world that it is well within it's rights to maintain a fleet i international waters and has not threatened any foreign power. It is merely overseeing a potentially volatile situation.

Britain reminds the USA that they have her wholehearted support in these matters and reaffirms the ideals of their alliance.

Britain requests that her allies Colombia and Argentina keep an eye on the situation in South America and prepare for whatever steps are necessary to resolve this.

We protest in the strongest possible terms this entirely unwarranted militarization of your borders with the Union and with the Chinese Empire. This is an unprovoked hostility, and if you do not stand your forces down we will interpret this as act of war and respond accordingly.
How dare you?

Seriously, you guys need to give Germany a chance to respond. I'm not in charge of common policy yet (duh, otherwise there wouldn't have been a crisis), so I can't speak for him. I know he's really busy with school.
And yes, LR, I really am pissed.

Note it says secretly strengthened and supplied.

Though I suppose you'd probably notice a few extra batallions.

Diplomatically Britain replies that she is dealing with rebels and criminals in the area and that this task requires her troops to operate close to your borders where many of the rebels are congregated. To support this statement the troops on the border do target practice and so sound as if tehy are in fact engaging the enemy. Though she assures Russian and Chinese the situation will be resolved soon and the men withdrawn when their task is complete.

Right. Missed "secretly." I can be a hothead sometimes too. The protest will still be there, but not as strongly worded, and we'll probably strengthen our own forces in the region and offer to help Britain in hunting down those pesky rebels.

OOC: I haven't actually done anything against Germany yet. All i've done is said that i'm going to move one part of my fleet to support the US in the Atlantic and to observe and react to the situation. Which is what i'm honourbound to do by my allaince with them. I don't plan to go to war without waiting for his reply or anything. As to the borders, i'll stand down the men if it'll make you happy. I am sure that any nation would reinforce it's land borders if war was a possibility.

Sorry if I casued offence or anything, I didn't mean to and I don't plan on going any further without waiting for a reply from Germany.

OOC: I haven't actually done anything against Germany yet. All i've done is said that i'm going to move one part of my fleet to support the US in the Atlantic and to observe and react to the situation. Which is what i'm honourbound to do by my allaince with them. I don't plan to go to war without waiting for his reply or anything. As to the borders, i'll stand down the men if it'll make you happy. I am sure that any nation would reinforce it's land borders if war was a possibility.

Sorry if I casued offence or anything, I didn't mean to and I don't plan on going any further without waiting for a reply from Germany.
I don't know, joint Anglo-Russian operations in, say, Afghanistan might not actually be a bad idea as far as I'm concerned, now that I think about it. I've really been pushing for detente. If that Burgundian guy would step up with starting the UN and my partner would stop trying to start a war with the US.

OOC: sorry for the double post and OOC clutter, but just saying that i'll be offline for a while to catch up on some schoolwork (geography, exiting eh?). So I won't be able to respond to any situation that develops. Oh and don't worry about misreading my post, I do that all the time!

IC: Britain will accept Russian help and ask them to keep an eye out for any "rebels" that may escpae into their nation.

The language of the announcement mentions any German or Russian ship (and how has Moscow offended, exactly? Does not your own Constitution prohibit guilt by association?), which would presumably include those carrying, say, quinine, as well as any carrying immigrants. It seems to me an egregious violation of another nation's sovereignty to forcefully interfere with its immigration policy in any event. Protest, by all means, but blockade? And threat of war?
And what, also, of the United States' ominous declaration that "the United States is therefore prepared to remove this government and remove all Germans from that nation"? That, sir, would be a monstrous action in human terms. I insist that the American people are better than this.

This is primarily because Russia has a military alliance with Germany. However, as to the best of our knowledge, there are no Russian warships in the area, it shouldn't be a major issue. Russian ships will be treated as neutral if they remain outside of Venezuelan waters however.

Any removal of Germans from Venezuela will be carried out in the most humane matter possible, and any German who has lived in Venezuela for at least 5 years, or who was born there, is exempt from this. This is directed primarily at recent arrivals, and any German troops or 'advisors' who might be present.

Meanwhile, agents of the US Government began chartering US flagged cargo and passenger vessels all along the East and Gulf coasts. Other agents approached watermen and fishermen along the Gulf Coast, the Carolinas and Chesapeake Bay, men experienced in working in shallow water and handling small craft in all kinds of conditions. Their sons were sought, men who knew almost as much as their fathers, but were young enough to serve.

Men such as these who joined the Navy were quickly shipped off to basic training and upon completion, they would be given the rank of petty officer and would be given their own small craft to command. They would be lead by the men of the Coast Guard, the experienced petty officers and junior officers who commanded the revenue cutters and rescue launches. Men experienced not only with the sea, but who could lead men.

As the men were assembled and trained, craft were hurriedly being built at boatyards all over the US. With small gasoline engines, wooden construction, able to operate in shallow water and carry troops ashore, and big enough to move on their own to assembly areas. First at Key West, then to Puerto Rico and then finally, when the time came, to the British island of Grenada.

Months would be required, but by next year, 1922, the US would have all it needed to make its move.

At the Army Command School and Naval War College, the best majors and lieutenant colonels were sent to new assignment... a special staff being assembled under the command of the impressive Colonel George C. Marshall. He had been given authority to create doctrine and plans for the upcoming invasion of Venezuela, and a free hand to be creative. The Army Industrial College was also given a mission. Train the leaders needed to handle the logistics of this project, prepare the Army for war on the European continent, and find the equipment or develop what is needed to wage all out war should it come to that.

Secret IC
One of the first men approached in the civilian sector is a brilliant but temperamental J. Walter Christie

ooc
http://www.geocities.com/firefly1002000/christory.html

Whose rather revolutionary designs had previously been rejected because of the price. With the probability of war coming, the Army decided since Congress was willing to spend some money, why not buy some of his vehicles. They were a better design than anything else considered at the moment, even if a bit unreliable, and if all else failed, they could be adapted to something better by one of the big companies if all else failed.

http://www.geocities.com/firefly1002000/christanks.html#m1921.html

He was working on another idea as well, but it wasn't ready yet. Perhaps the rush of things should war came would bring it forward sooner.

http://www.geocities.com/firefly1002000/christanks.html#m1928.html

OOC: Bloody imperialists! Bloody employed imperialists!

Sheesh. True, that I did not ask Russia first, but the protectorate was simply a military alliance. Basically, it meant that if Colombia or the US got too agressive, Germany would come to the assisstance of Venezuela. It's not like I was moving 2/3rds of my army there!

Mostly, I was just ensuring that one of TWO countries in the whole damned hemisphere would not be eaten like roast beast. I also said that Zeppelins going there were completely commercial, transporting goods and a few people. In so far, I have made no hostile actions, and everything the US has done has been against the good of the world.

IC: Germany believes that the US is overreacting and putting the lives of millions of Europeans on the line. All agree that it would again be the Franco-Italian borders that would be fighting and it would be primarily French Italian and Germans who died. The US, like the Italians before them, are only using the Europeans for shields against the true ways of the People! They are preparing for an agressive war that no one but the Imperialists in Washington desire!

The Protectorate of Venezuela is only to ensure that Germans and Venezuelans do not fall under the iron grasp of the Americans. We have not moved any military inside of the hemisphere, and believe that the Americans have absolutely no reason to be so jumpy! The true face of the President, that he only wishes to exert his power at the cost of the workers of both Germany and America, is finally shown!

OOC2: How can the Ambassador of Germany be sent a note if you don't recognize us ;)

The thought of German style Communism appearing in Latin America comes as a sudden shock to Argentina and her leaders. President Sanfuentes, newly recovered and back in charge after his attempted assassination (see Argentine News Thread), is particularly livid. "First they attempt to kill me, poisoning the minds of our nations youth against us... And now they want to bring their hate filled ways onto South American soil! I for one say they will not!" Messages have been sent, recalling the Argentine Fleet from training with the Japanese Navy, and calling up the Active Duty army to be ready at a moment's notice, should the need arise for them to strike.

::Telegram to Germany::

Dear Sirs,

We suggest in the strongest possible way that you refrain from any and all actions with reguard to Venezuela at this time. Under no situation should you attempt to garrison a South American nation with your wierd notions of property and economics, or lax belief in the soverignty of established hierarchy.

President Ramon Sanfuentes
Republic of Argentina

::Telegram to Britain, USA, Colombia::

Dear Sirs,

It is imperative that we form a united front to German aggression across the Atlantic. It is bad enough that they overthrow a legitimate government in their own region of the world, but to bring their ideals to a decent Christian nation should not be allowed, especially when that nation has not expressed interest in following their path. No matter what your plans are reguarding this matter, rest assured that you have Argentina's support on your side.

President Ramon Sanfuentes
Republic of Argentina

The Zionist Army has been mobilised, they will of course aid our friendly neighbours Argentina, Chaim Weizmann has condemned Germanic expansionist Communism

The Japanese Fleet(Under Commodore Yamamato) Currently operating in the Carribean Sea offers its services to the USN in helping blockade Venezuala.


OOC:If there is Action I want my fleet to get some experience.

Parthini']OOC: Bloody imperialists! Bloody employed imperialists!

Sheesh. True, that I did not ask Russia first, but the protectorate was simply a military alliance. Basically, it meant that if Colombia or the US got too agressive, Germany would come to the assisstance of Venezuela. It's not like I was moving 2/3rds of my army there!

Mostly, I was just ensuring that one of TWO countries in the whole damned hemisphere would not be eaten like roast beast. I also said that Zeppelins going there were completely commercial, transporting goods and a few people. In so far, I have made no hostile actions, and everything the US has done has been against the good of the world.

OOC2: How can the Ambassador of Germany be sent a note if you don't recognize us ;)

The US recognizes Germany, but is expelling the Venezuelan Embassy and staff.

Colombia, Mexico, and Chile haven't been eaten. Brazil was left alone once it dropped the alliance, although since its trying to bring up a new one that may very well change. And Germany is not allowed to move ANY of its Army to the Western Hemisphere.

France urges restraint on all sides of the conflict, but has mobilized their forces and has deployed their flet to the Medditerrian and North Sea.

OOC: Guys, stop trying to start a world war every five seconds. We need to wait to start this one, as our last one showed us. If we wait till the 30s, we can get loads more technology, with a war more comparable to OTL's WWII than a later WWI. That's my two cents.

IC:

In response to the German and Russian threats, the Italian army mobilises and prepares to block off all the important passes in the Alps. If Germany wants war, it would get it, and it would find the Alps most unpleasant warfighting terrain. The Italian fleet sets out to sea, staying in the Med.

A stern note is sent to Germany, telling the Germans that Italy requires no human shield, and that the foolishness in Venezuela must end. A note is also sent to the United States, offering a few destroyers to the blockade.

OOC: Guys, stop trying to start a world war every five seconds. We need to wait to start this one, as our last one showed us. If we wait till the 30s, we can get loads more technology, with a war more comparable to OTL's WWII than a later WWI. That's my two cents.

ooc
as a player its in my strategic interest to make damn sure that Germany doens't get an advanced base in the Western Hemisphere, and the US is acting completely consistant with its stance all game. As a moderator I can RP a war at any time, and its actually simpler with simpler technology...

IC
The US has made a move to create a firm alliance to offset the German/Russian alliance

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=444332

The Republic of Chile will stand by it's alliance with the United States of America, and the Pan American Treaty. The Navy and Costal Defences have been put on alert. The Chilean Congress is now debating the invocation of trade and espionage control measures under the Trade With Hostile Powers Act of 1912.

The Colombians have been hard at work. Along the border with Venezeula, the old fortified line, now called the Tatham Line. It had been constantly kept upto date, with new cannons every few years, now with 280mm Mortars, 203mm guns, and dozens of machine guns on each fortress.

High above these fortresses flew the Colombian Air Corp, flying spotting missions along the border. They would identify Venezeulan positions, and report them back, noting the change each day. Several miles into Colombian territory, 4 Divisions could be seen practicing maneuvers. Large trucks capable of carrying twenty men were seen disgorging soldiers in an assault wave, while their counterparts practiced defencive maneuvers.

Along the Tatham Line, the 1st Colombian Republican Guard manned the defences, along with the 9th Infantry Division.

The Colombian navy has been busy as well. Moving from their training exercises in the caribbean, they have joined the United States in a blockade of Venezeula. Although, Colombia is still currently attempting to purchase Submarines from the US Navy.

Another key item that Colombia requires from the United States is balloons. Simple Balloons for target practice. The target practice will be to test out Colombia's new Anti-Zeppelin artillery device; A 57.9mm high-velocity, long range, high angle rapid-fire gun. Another design for a 105mm version will be tested as well for range. The fear of German Zeppelins has also caused the Colombians to design a faster firing Triple 40mm Anti-Aircraft Gun for use against German Aircraft. This will also have to be tested, but on what?

Message from Moscow's Charge d'Affaires in Rome
In response to the German and Russian threats, the Italian army mobilises and prepares to block off all the important passes in the Alps. If Germany wants war, it would get it, and it would find the Alps most unpleasant warfighting terrain. The Italian fleet sets out to sea, staying in the Med.

What "Russian threats" are these the Italians are referring to? Moscow has done nothing but repudiate Germany's actions and declare them illegal by our own treaty with Germany. Stand down your forces, or we will take this aggression for what it is.

Message from Moscow's Ambassador in Washington
I see your forces have continued operations without giving a fair chance for diplomacy. I wonder, if Germany withdrew at this point, would you want peace even then?

OOC: Since I am pissed off due to the large amound of idiots surrounding me (in RL) I will make an angry and abbreviated answer. It's not anyone here. I just had a bad nap :mad:

IC: Germany recognizes that some of her actions have been too hostile and is willing to back down. However, Germany is curious to know what we need to withdraw from?

Parthini']OOC: Since I am pissed off due to the large amound of idiots surrounding me (in RL) I will make an angry and abbreviated answer. It's not anyone here. I just had a bad nap :mad:

IC: Germany recognizes that some of her actions have been too hostile and is willing to back down. However, Germany is curious to know what we need to withdraw from?

OOC
I am going with this...an official response by diplomats brings about a reply from the US demanding the immediate halt of German immigration to Venezuela, and the retraction of the Procterate status of Venezuela. If it comes out in the Press, the US will simply condemn German arrogance. Since I am not sure which happens, I kind of have to go with either or both here.

IC
Meanwhile, Seaplanes launched from the carrier William McKinley begin overflights of the principal Azores islands, taking pictures.

Although, Colombia is still currently attempting to purchase Submarines from the US Navy.

Another key item that Colombia requires from the United States is balloons. Simple Balloons for target practice. The target practice will be to test out Colombia's new Anti-Zeppelin artillery device; A 57.9mm high-velocity, long range, high angle rapid-fire gun. Another design for a 105mm version will be tested as well for range. The fear of German Zeppelins has also caused the Colombians to design a faster firing Triple 40mm Anti-Aircraft Gun for use against German Aircraft. This will also have to be tested, but on what?

ooc: GB?

ooc: GB?

you want US submarines? Place an order, the US is willing to sell you 5 new S boats and train the crews, although figure about two years before they are ready. Balloons are so cheap they are readily available.

Germany will agree to withdraw protectorate status of Venezuela as it is recognized that that action was illegal according to the Warsaw Pact. Germany will also discontinue placement of German dissedents in Venezuela. However, Germany will not direct where they go, and should they arrive in Venezuela, that will be of no consequence to Germany.

However, American airplanes are not welcome in the Azores and will be declared hostile if they are within Azorean airspace.

Parthini']Germany will agree to withdraw protectorate status of Venezuela as it is recognized that that action was illegal according to the Warsaw Pact. Germany will also discontinue placement of German dissedents in Venezuela. However, Germany will not direct where they go, and should they arrive in Venezuela, that will be of no consequence to Germany.

However, American airplanes are not welcome in the Azores and will be declared hostile if they are within Azorean airspace.
Russia resumes full support of German policy.

ooc: The S-Class will be fine..

ooc
you are assuming that the aircraft are actually spotted flying at several thousand feet, which is iffy, as there is no radar, the natives have probably never seen one before except for what planes the Germans have, and aircraft identification is a science that hasn't been invented yet either. So if a plane is spotted, it is likely misidentified, and assumed to be friendly or simply not spotted at all. Most of the troops aren't going to know whose it is either.

ooc
you are assuming that the aircraft are actually spotted flying at several thousand feet, which is iffy, as there is no radar, the natives have probably never seen one before except for what planes the Germans have, and aircraft identification is a science that hasn't been invented yet either. So if a plane is spotted, it is likely misidentified, and assumed to be friendly or simply not spotted at all. Most of the troops aren't going to know whose it is either.
Yes, well, you've got a point. But that also brings up the issue of how good can their cameras be at getting decent images from a moving position several thousand feet (at least) away?

Yes, well, you've got a point. But that also brings up the issue of how good can their cameras be at getting decent images from a moving position several thousand feet (at least) away?

ooc
World War I aerial photography was actually pretty good.. good enough to make maps, spot ships, identify construction sites etc... which is the goal here.. general recce... and we have better cameras in this timeline than they had in 1914 when it all started, and the brig powers have been playing with scout planes for a while. We aren't talking identifying field fortifications or people, just what I indicated.

secret IC
The US Navy asks the British if it can use the Lesser Antilles to base seaplanes out of in order to provide scouting and recce support to the fleets.

ooc
Shorebased seaplanes have better range than our carrier planes do, for both the RN and USN. Plus we might need them to rescue pilots with at some point.

Gary Powers? Fat chance. The Germans would've fed him his own skin.

Gary Powers? Fat chance. The Germans would've fed him his own skin.

ooc
actually I was thinking pilots that crash in operational accidents... during the World Wars, nearly twice as many pilots were killed just flying (or attempting to) then shot down in combat for example. Crashes were pretty common, of course air sea rescue has barely been invented (the US Coast Guard is trying some things out already historically), but you have to start somewhere.

TO US: Feel free to use the Lesser Antilles, Barbados would seem a good choice: it is flat and has many fields (usually of sugar) to land on in an emergency. A naval working party from the Bridgetown port is currently working on clearing a large landing strip on the West of the island for joint Anglo-American use. Buildings are being erected to provide a control room, barracks, officer's mess etc.

Planes are being transferred there from my carriers and ground crew and extra control staff are being shipped in from the fleet. Supplies (mostly aircraft fuel) are arriving and a storage depot set up a short distance away.

The US is free to transfer whatever planes it wishes to the strip as well as any ground crew that are required. Whilst Britain can provide for most needs we request that extra aircraft fuel (kerosene?) be shipped in from the US (it's closer than the UK) when present supplies run out as there is only a limited supply available and much of that is for exclusive use of the carriers.

The US government suggests we buy gasoline from the Royal Dutch refinery in Curacoa (ooc which you own). The US Army Air Corps sends a squadron of MB2s and the Navy sends 2 squadrons of Flying Boats (which land in the harbor and dont need airfields). This gives the Allies sufficiently long ranged aircraft to cover the entire Venezuelan coast and well out to sea (a search range of nearly 500 miles).

Secret IC
The US plans to invade Venezuela in January 1922, and quietly lets the Colombians and British know of the general plan. Time to settle the situation once and for all. After the invasion, the Colombians will be asked to oversee Venezuela and eventually hold an election either adding it to Colombia or giving it back independence.

It may be time to look hard at Brazil after that.

OOC: Well since I primarily use Zeppelins for transport, and I don't have that many planes on the Azores, the garrison is at least curious.

And yes, I fed Gary Powers his skin... I think....

IC: In the Free Republics of the Cameroons and Togoland, anti-Communist uprisings have been occuring the past year. However, with the situation in Venezuela, Germany has mostly looked over it. However, with the near assassination of the German Ambassador and the calls for support, the German High Command has decided to assist her children in dealing with the scum.

OOC: I hope I don't have to ask Warsaw, because I am just putting down rebellions. If I do have to ask, consider this a request

IC: 8 Divisions have been sent to the ex-colonies to stave off the rebels. 2 Plane-Zeppelins have also been sent as well as an additional 10 Zeppelins.

ooc
you know Germany if war comes those poor bastards in Africa are toast... no resupply once the Allies control the seas, and therefore no ammunition resupply, food resupply or anything else. Thats pretty rough on about 200,000 troops (8 divisions at 14,000 each, plus corps and army support)

Incidently, are any German ships still in the Caribbean or West of the 60th Meridian?

IC
American aircraft were now frequently flying over the Venezuelan coast taking pictures. American radio operators aboard ships were listening in to all radio traffic that they could, in order to get a feel for patterns.

Meanwhile, after a couple of months, the two American carrier / cruiser groups returned to port to refuel and refit for a month, and then they returned to their patrol stations. The USN requests that the RN cover both areas (Iceland and the Azores) while the Americans ships are out of position.

Meanwhile, the US battle fleet (15 battleships, 40 destroyers, 20 other ships) visits Britian to practice with the RN in a series of wargames in the Irish Sea and off the coast of the Orkney Islands. (ooc assuming the British are willing) and then it makes a series of port visits to English and French ports, providing the Europeans a chance to meet American sailors and the American sailors a taste of the Old World.

ooc
and incidently showing the power of the USN

Hey man. I don't want a war. I'm just smacking the Non-Communists where I can. And all of my ships, minus some commercial Zeps are gone. I never had any anyways...

OOC: Just to spice things up a bit...
IC:

In secret, the Italian government urges America and Britain to invade Venezuela, saying that the time is right to strike with the German army busy in Africa. Although a German response would to an invasion of Venezuela would be minimal to the United States, and that the brunt of a German blow would probably fall on Italy, Italy is confident that the Russo-German alliance would face defeat at the hands of Britain, France, Italy, and the United States, as the sides are likely to be.

OOC: Jeez Fluff, you really want a war don't you!

IC:

The newly elected French government politely informs the Americans, Italians and British that they will not enter any war in which the United Staes, Britan, and Italy are the agressors.

IC:

The newly elected French government politely informs the Americans, Italians and British that they will not enter any war in which the United Staes, Britan, and Italy are the agressors.

The United States government understands that position, although it does request clarification.

In the Pamlico Sound of North Carolina, the United States Navy, and the newly formed Marine Division and the Army 2nd Infantry Division begin practicing amphibious landings with the new assault boats that are coming out. Problems are quickly found. But practice leads to changes in doctrine and some experiments with equipment.

The Government of Albania declares it's nuetrality should war break out and the Western Powers be the aggressors.

Britain agrees to combined naval practice within British waters and designates the Home Fleet to begin preparing for the arrival of the US Battlefleet. Perhaps a temporary exchange of officers (for the duration of the exercises) can be arranged so that our officers will be better affiliated with your ships and crews and vice versa. We are also willing to grant temporary passports to your crews so that they can enjoy shore leave in Britain.

Britain secretly snubs the Italian proposal as warmongering and doesn't bother with a reply. The British are not warmongerers and wish to maintain peace wherever possible (more profitable than war!).

During the fall, after exercising with the British and Colombians, and visiting the French, the US Navy returns home and prepares for its next operations.

On January 10, 1922, the Invasion of Venezuela begins.

500 landing boats (each 70 feet long, carrying 5 crew, 20 soldiers or marines) made up the first wave, escorted by 20 destroyers and 10 minesweepers for close in support. They carried the assault troops of the Marine Division and the 2nd and 4th Infantry divisions to beaches near Maracaibo, Tucacas and Cumana, the principal Venezuelan ports. Behind them were dozens of transports carry the the rest of the troops of those divisions, plus the 3rd and 5th Infantry Divisions and corps and army support troops.

Covering the invasion were the battleships Arkansas, Texas, New York, Arizona and Pennsylvania, along with 10 more destroyers, while the Carriers George Washington and William McKinley provided scout planes, along with the Flying Boats and twin engined bombers operating out of Grenada and Barbados.

The Venezuelans were prepared to defend the entrances of their ports, but didn't have sufficient men to guard every beach and the Americans rapidly gain firm beachheads and push forward toward their objectives. Within a week they have secured all three ports, as the Venezuleans simply are outgunned and outmanned. The Americans have their problems, mostly due to inexperience, but they also have a lot more artillery and firepower available and that makes all of the difference. In addition, the Americans are able to land 3 more divisions by the end of January, giving them 9 Infantry divisions organized into 3 Corps, nearly 300,000 men on the ground including support troops, and they have a lot more firepower than the entire Venezuelan Army.

By the end of February the Americans occupy Caracas and force a surrender. A few scattered Venezuelan units retreat into the jungle but find that without food supplies or medicine, the jungle is a green hell and most soon surrender. The rest die from starvation, disease, or the local Indian tribesmen who don't like the Venezuelans (or anyone else) much at all.

ooc
gamed out, Venezulean resistance was simply smashed aside on the beaches by firepower, and pursuit wiped them out even before Caracas was reached. Units that retreated into the jungle went out of supply and disintegrated.

US casaulties
6,000 killed in action, 18,000 wounded, 10,000 dead of disease, 50,000 sick and evacuated. (heavy losses in other words.. the tropics aren't fun to fight in)

meanwhile, a picket line of submarines based out of England watches the entrances to the German ports, waiting to see if they will sortie. At Norfolk, the US Navy waits, with 10 battleships, 2 carriers, 6 cruisers and 30 destroyers, plus numerous submarines. Just in case.

During the fall, after exercising with the British and Colombians, and visiting the French, the US Navy returns home and prepares for its next operations.

On January 10, 1922, the Invasion of Venezuela begins.

500 landing boats (each 70 feet long, carrying 5 crew, 20 soldiers or marines) made up the first wave, escorted by 20 destroyers and 10 minesweepers for close in support. They carried the assault troops of the Marine Division and the 2nd and 4th Infantry divisions to beaches near Maracaibo, Tucacas and Cumana, the principal Venezuelan ports. Behind them were dozens of transports carry the the rest of the troops of those divisions, plus the 3rd and 5th Infantry Divisions and corps and army support troops.

Covering the invasion were the battleships Arkansas, Texas, New York, Arizona and Pennsylvania, along with 10 more destroyers, while the Carriers George Washington and William McKinley provided scout planes, along with the Flying Boats and twin engined bombers operating out of Grenada and Barbados.

The Venezuelans were prepared to defend the entrances of their ports, but didn't have sufficient men to guard every beach and the Americans rapidly gain firm beachheads and push forward toward their objectives. Within a week they have secured all three ports, as the Venezuleans simply are outgunned and outmanned. The Americans have their problems, mostly due to inexperience, but they also have a lot more artillery and firepower available and that makes all of the difference. In addition, the Americans are able to land 3 more divisions by the end of January, giving them 9 Infantry divisions organized into 3 Corps, nearly 300,000 men on the ground including support troops, and they have a lot more firepower than the entire Venezuelan Army.

By the end of February the Americans occupy Caracas and force a surrender. A few scattered Venezuelan units retreat into the jungle but find that without food supplies or medicine, the jungle is a green hell and most soon surrender. The rest die from starvation, disease, or the local Indian tribesmen who don't like the Venezuelans (or anyone else) much at all.

ooc
gamed out, Venezulean resistance was simply smashed aside on the beaches by firepower, and pursuit wiped them out even before Caracas was reached. Units that retreated into the jungle went out of supply and disintegrated.

US casaulties
6,000 killed in action, 18,000 wounded, 10,000 dead of disease, 50,000 sick and evacuated. (heavy losses in other words.. the tropics aren't fun to fight in)


OOC: I'm not sure how long this has been planned so don't shoot me down in flames but this has all happened very quickly. I doubt most nations will have had time to see this post and already Venezuela is under full American control? I mean, some nations in the World surely would have protested about this. Parthini at least gave notice before sending settlers there and the world was in outrage over that. Are we to expect that the World would not bat an eyelid at this invasion? There wasn't much hint of it, I mean if Parthini had invaded then sure you could attack but this? Venezuela has fallen and you havn't given people a chance to respond. Shouldn't you have announced the invasion first? Oh well...I guess I will have to respond now. This is very sudden though and its fallen immediately, thats strange. Nevermind.

During the fall, after exercising with the British and Colombians, and visiting the French, the US Navy returns home and prepares for its next operations.

On January 10, 1922, the Invasion of Venezuela begins.

500 landing boats (each 70 feet long, carrying 5 crew, 20 soldiers or marines) made up the first wave, escorted by 20 destroyers and 10 minesweepers for close in support. They carried the assault troops of the Marine Division and the 2nd and 4th Infantry divisions to beaches near Maracaibo, Tucacas and Cumana, the principal Venezuelan ports. Behind them were dozens of transports carry the the rest of the troops of those divisions, plus the 3rd and 5th Infantry Divisions and corps and army support troops.

Covering the invasion were the battleships Arkansas, Texas, New York, Arizona and Pennsylvania, along with 10 more destroyers, while the Carriers George Washington and William McKinley provided scout planes, along with the Flying Boats and twin engined bombers operating out of Grenada and Barbados.

The Venezuelans were prepared to defend the entrances of their ports, but didn't have sufficient men to guard every beach and the Americans rapidly gain firm beachheads and push forward toward their objectives. Within a week they have secured all three ports, as the Venezuleans simply are outgunned and outmanned. The Americans have their problems, mostly due to inexperience, but they also have a lot more artillery and firepower available and that makes all of the difference. In addition, the Americans are able to land 3 more divisions by the end of January, giving them 9 Infantry divisions organized into 3 Corps, nearly 300,000 men on the ground including support troops, and they have a lot more firepower than the entire Venezuelan Army.

By the end of February the Americans occupy Caracas and force a surrender. A few scattered Venezuelan units retreat into the jungle but find that without food supplies or medicine, the jungle is a green hell and most soon surrender. The rest die from starvation, disease, or the local Indian tribesmen who don't like the Venezuelans (or anyone else) much at all.

ooc
gamed out, Venezulean resistance was simply smashed aside on the beaches by firepower, and pursuit wiped them out even before Caracas was reached. Units that retreated into the jungle went out of supply and disintegrated.

US casaulties
6,000 killed in action, 18,000 wounded, 10,000 dead of disease, 50,000 sick and evacuated. (heavy losses in other words.. the tropics aren't fun to fight in)


The Brazilian Government is positively seething with rage in the face of this disgusting intervention in the affairs of a sovereign nation so close to our own borders. Are we to assume that any nation not falling into line with American policy will have the same fate? We realise that to contest the matter militarily would cause heavy casualties on both sides so we will not follow that course of action. We will however, condemn this atrocious deed by the United States. We realise the people are not corrupt but the leaders who wish war to further their ambitions. Any nation that deals with an American puppet government that will doubtless be installed in Venezuela is approving this atrocity by the United States. Still, whats done is done. Brazil must react to this move accordingly and reminds the United States that this is a clear threat to our own borders by having such an anti Brazilian presence suddenly created right next to us as this new Venezuelan government certainly will be if the US or their Colombian Comrades have anything to say about it.

Regards.
Brazil's Politburo and Parliament.

Secret:
Brazilian Armed Forces chiefs begin training troops in Basic Jungle survival techniques. The Special Troop, 45,000 strong and trained exactly for jungle warfare, increases exercises in the Amazon. Tentative relations are established with indigenous people and plans are drawn up to evacuate the Politburo and President to Amazon bases if neccesary. Huge tunnel network started and supply and medical stations set up deep in the Amazon. Communications using basic methods are made operational in the Amazon. Armed forces general strategy against overwhelming odds is shifted to jungle warfare, fully utilising unorthodox tactics and weaponry and local militias as well as survival in jungle terrain.

Telegram From Chaim Weizmann to America

It was our understanding that Germany pulled down it's protectorate claim over Venezuela, and yet still you have invaded, what claim do you have on this nation? Please clear this up for me.

The Argentine people join with the Brazilians in expressing their outrage at this illegal invasion of a soverign state. Newly elected President José Calderón has already called the invasion a "Deplorable Act against a defenseless people" and has called for a meeting of all concerned nations at Buenos Aires to discuss the occupation.

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=445066
[Buenos Aires Conference on Latin American Affairs [E20 Only]]

OOC: I'm not sure how long this has been planned so don't shoot me down in flames but this has all happened very quickly. I doubt most nations will have had time to see this post and already Venezuela is under full American control? I mean, some nations in the World surely would have protested about this. Parthini at least gave notice before sending settlers there and the world was in outrage over that. Are we to expect that the World would not bat an eyelid at this invasion? There wasn't much hint of it, I mean if Parthini had invaded then sure you could attack but this? Venezuela has fallen and you havn't given people a chance to respond. Shouldn't you have announced the invasion first? Oh well...I guess I will have to respond now. This is very sudden though and its fallen immediately, thats strange. Nevermind.

ooc
its been planned for about 9 months, check earlier in the thread. There is no way any other nation will be able to respond militarily before the Venezuelans collapse, I gamed it out and based on their army, their training level, and the US army and training level it was pretty much over in a week. Look over the history of Latin American armies, none, except Mexico, has ever won a war with a European nation or the US, and the Mexicans won their war against France because the Americans threatened to intervene once the Civil War was over. There might be scattered resistance after, but even Marxism hasn't latched onto the idea of protracted struggle yet. So no guerilla war, and with the US controlling the seas around it, and the jungle on all three sides, no sanctuaries for guerillas to flee to either

The Brazilian Government is positively seething with rage in the face of this disgusting intervention in the affairs of a sovereign nation so close to our own borders. Are we to assume that any nation not falling into line with American policy will have the same fate? We realise that to contest the matter militarily would cause heavy casualties on both sides so we will not follow that course of action. We will however, condemn this atrocious deed by the United States. We realise the people are not corrupt but the leaders who wish war to further their ambitions. Any nation that deals with an American puppet government that will doubtless be installed in Venezuela is approving this atrocity by the United States. Still, whats done is done. Brazil must react to this move accordingly and reminds the United States that this is a clear threat to our own borders by having such an anti Brazilian presence suddenly created right next to us as this new Venezuelan government certainly will be if the US or their Colombian Comrades have anything to say about it.

Regards.
Brazil's Politburo and Parliament.

Secret:
Brazilian Armed Forces chiefs begin training troops in Basic Jungle survival techniques. The Special Troop, 45,000 strong and trained exactly for jungle warfare, increases exercises in the Amazon. Tentative relations are established with indigenous people and plans are drawn up to evacuate the Politburo and President to Amazon bases if neccesary. Huge tunnel network started and supply and medical stations set up deep in the Amazon. Communications using basic methods are made operational in the Amazon. Armed forces general strategy against overwhelming odds is shifted to jungle warfare, fully utilising unorthodox tactics and weaponry and local militias as well as survival in jungle terrain.


ooc
we need to talk.. in the military thread I made some very pointed statements about Special Forces. Until we have a global war, there aren't going to be commando type troops, and guerilla warfare as a doctrine has not been invented yet either, as there has not been a need. In addition, the Amazon tributeries do not flow into the Orinicco tributeries, so logistically, you are talking about trying to support a campaign that is several hundred miles from the nearest navigable river and a thousand or more miles from Manus, the nearest city. Remember to keep in mind we are in 1921

The Brazilian Government is positively seething with rage in the face of this disgusting intervention in the affairs of a sovereign nation so close to our own borders. Are we to assume that any nation not falling into line with American policy will have the same fate? We realise that to contest the matter militarily would cause heavy casualties on both sides so we will not follow that course of action. We will however, condemn this atrocious deed by the United States. We realise the people are not corrupt but the leaders who wish war to further their ambitions. Any nation that deals with an American puppet government that will doubtless be installed in Venezuela is approving this atrocity by the United States. Still, whats done is done. Brazil must react to this move accordingly and reminds the United States that this is a clear threat to our own borders by having such an anti Brazilian presence suddenly created right next to us as this new Venezuelan government certainly will be if the US or their Colombian Comrades have anything to say about it.

Regards.
Brazil's Politburo and Parliament. .

The US government makes note of the Brazilian governments dismay. The United States government hereby informs the Brazilian government that the US has no plans to permanently occupy Venezuela, but simply intends to ensure that Venezuela does not threaten the security of the Western Hemisphere by allowing governments unfriendly to nations in this hemisphere to make it a de facto colony or station military forces in that nation. Germany has done so in the past, and by its actions threatened to do so again. That will no longer be tolerated.

After all German personnel are removed, the US will establish a caretaker government which will hold elections. International observers have and will be requested from Sweden, Switzerland, Peru and Mexico to ensure they are fair elections. . Colombian troops have been requested to provide peace and security to the population until a permanent government is established.


The US will honor the results of those elections and will not interfere further in Venezuela as long as that nation does not seek to bring in military forces from outside the hemisphere into it. Any nation that does so can expect a rapid and sharp response from the United States.

Telegram From Chaim Weizmann to America

We appreciate your need to look after your own back, but was it nessesary for so many Venezuelans to die? And was it nessesary to have lost all of your own men, was it worth it just to make sure that your nation does not become overun by a political ideology? I certantly hope it was worth it!

Telegram From Chaim Weizmann to America

We appreciate your need to look after your own back, but was it nessesary for so many Venezuelans to die? And was it nessesary to have lost all of your own men, was it worth it just to make sure that your nation does not become overun by a political ideology? I certantly hope it was worth it!


ooc
officially the US does not have formal relations with Zion, considering it merely part of Argentina. But I suppose it might have made some of the newspapers, especially the more populist or leftist ones.

OOC: I seriously feel like my step-son was just pissed on by some jerk bully. If I had a nuke, I would drop it on Washington, even if it was against Warsaw's wishes.

IC: Germany is wholly enraged that America has attacked a peaceful democracy that has only tried to find friends while being surrounded by enemies. Germany calls for all South Americans to sever ties with America and band together. The lapdog Colombia should not be trusted either.

ooc
just protecting my interests... you should read what the US did historically, I am pretty laid back in comparision

IC
The United States notes Germany's ire... but points out that the situation would not have arisen if Germany had not attempted to make Venezuela a colony in 1905, and even after that, would have been prevented if Germany had not attempted to formerly ally with a nation in the Western Hemisphere after the clear warning the US gave Brazil in a similar situation a year earlier.

The United States will not tolerate a nation in the Western Hemisphere allying with nations that have a history of expansionism that is dangerous to the peace and security of the Western Hemisphere and will take whatever action is required to protect the peace and security of not only the United States but its allies.

From: Paulo DeGomez,
Attorney General, Republic of Chile
To: German Embassy, Santiago, Chile
Brazilian Embassy, Santiago, Chile

At the service of the Chilean House of Representatives I am requesting a full disclosure of German and Brazilian commercial and political involvement in Chile within the last year. You are aware of the interest of our Congress in your activities, with respect to Chilean Commercial Code. We believe this would be in the best interests of all our nations.

ooc
just protecting my interests... you should read what the US did historically, I am pretty laid back in comparision
He is pretty laid back compared to RL, but:
The United States will not tolerate a nation in the Western Hemisphere allying with nations that have a history of expansionism that is dangerous to the peace and security of the Western Hemisphere.
Ohhh, the irony.

He is pretty laid back compared to RL, but:

Ohhh, the irony.

ooc
it wasn't lost on me (chuckle)

I know.

Prime Minster Leon Blum publicly and loudly condemns what he calls a "blatant act of Imperialism", telling the Americans that they have become "worse then the ones they claim to oppose."

OOC: Yeah, I knew that. American history sucks :mad:

Umm, Chile what exactly do you want me to do? I haven't had much involvement with you, so I don't think too much would have happened.

Colombia is considering no longer recognizing the German government, and just going straight to Russia; It is obvious as to whom is in control in Communist Europe. Why communicate with someone who has no authority?

Colombia approves of the United States' steps to secure the future of South America. Many may not have noticed, but Germany continued to attempt a.. sly annexation of Venezuela over a period of two decades. The Germans are the ones that cannot be trusted.

Colombia is considering no longer recognizing the German government, and just going straight to Russia; It is obvious as to whom is in control in Communist Europe. Why communicate with someone who has no authority?
Colombia can go to hell for trying so ham-handedly to drive a wedge between Moscow and Berlin. Russia withdraws its embassy, and declares the Colombian government illegitimate and clearly nothing more than Washington's lackey and slave. We further call upon the Colombian people to rise and overthrow their tyrannical masters, and establish for themselves the dignity and liberty that is their birthright.
Muerte a Colombia! Viva la Revolucion!

Upon seizing control of Venezuela, the first thing the US does is assume control over all of Venezuela's foreign debt and pay it off. In the future, proceeds from the sale of Venezuelan oil will go toward paying off the debt now owed the US.

This intervention is far from universily popular in the US of course. Some protest emerges, and some nasty diatribes in the papers also appear. But in the days before television and radio its far away, and not even the News Real cameras are present very often. Soon people will forget all about it. Especially when assurances come from the government that it is a temporary measure to keep the Germans out.

Colombia formally withdraws any and all diplomatic ties with Spain, France, Germany, and Russia. Futhermore, Colombia is considering deporting anyone of said background.

And in regards to a Colombian revolution? Colombian workers are not oppressed, and infact earn the most money of any South American worker.

ooc
we need to talk.. in the military thread I made some very pointed statements about Special Forces. Until we have a global war, there aren't going to be commando type troops, and guerilla warfare as a doctrine has not been invented yet either, as there has not been a need. In addition, the Amazon tributeries do not flow into the Orinicco tributeries, so logistically, you are talking about trying to support a campaign that is several hundred miles from the nearest navigable river and a thousand or more miles from Manus, the nearest city. Remember to keep in mind we are in 1921


We aren't pretending to have very well trained troops. They were trained by the South Afrikan 10th and 11th Kommando but still they are hardly special forces. I called them this simply to distinguish that they were an elite among my army rather than some Uber killing machine. And I am not neccesarily planning to fight a war there, its just a contingency plan in case the government did have to retreat, same with the local militias in that respect, its all contingency, not an entire plan of campaign.

We aren't pretending to have very well trained troops. They were trained by the South Afrikan 10th and 11th Kommando but still they are hardly special forces. I called them this simply to distinguish that they were an elite among my army rather than some Uber killing machine. And I am not neccesarily planning to fight a war there, its just a contingency plan in case the government did have to retreat, same with the local militias in that respect, its all contingency, not an entire plan of campaign.

ooc
just making sure, the name Special Forces were a concern. Its my job as one of the referees to ensure realism in the military end of things.

Prime Minster Leon Blum publicly and loudly condemns what he calls a "blatant act of Imperialism", telling the Americans that they have become "worse then the ones they claim to oppose."

the United States government points out that France has a far larger colonial empire than the US does, and that only recently has it even begun to offer future independence to those peoples, while the US made that pledge to the Filipinos in 1902, and has offered it to Puerto Rico, which chose to remain part of the US and to Venezuela in the near future.

ooc
just making sure, the name Special Forces were a concern. Its my job as one of the referees to ensure realism in the military end of things.

Yea I apologise for that. I just said special because to say elite would have been a bit pretentious considering hardly any infantry in the world are particularly effective at this point as they still rely on mass attacks etc. Still, for mine, just say well trained light infantry I guess.

Secret IC:
The Italian government agrees with the secret American request (I assume it was secret, as it was by t-gram), and (secretly) informs the American government of this. A few officials hope to go to America to discuss everything with the agreement.

Also, some very quiet construction begins on the border with France and Germany, and all who ask will be told that Italy is simply building long overdue defenses to secure Italy from all potential threats. The French construction is, when spoken of, to be a defense in case of a German invasion of France and attack on Italy.