Even the Times newspaper in November 1912 agreed with Gladstone’s idea: “The Balkans for the people of the Balkans.” Until then, Russia never believed that the Balkan nations should be able to stand on their own, free from Russia’s protection. Russian leaders were likely worried about Bulgaria’s victories in Thrace. Similarly, Austria was also concerned about the disappearance of her dreams of control in the western Balkans.
Serbia’s Secret Plans
Before the war started, Serbia was secretly telling her representatives to push for territory beyond the border where she had promised not to make any claims. In the early months of the war, Serbia showed a clear intention to break the agreement made with Bulgaria. This action was likely encouraged or even instigated by M. Hartwegg, the Russian Minister in Belgrade The Secret Annex to the Treaty.
A Telegram from Sir M. de Bunsen
I recently came across an interesting reference to M. Hartwegg. It is found in a telegram sent by Sir M. de Bunsen, the British Ambassador in Vienna, to Sir Edward Grey, the British Foreign Minister, on July 31st, 1914. The telegram says:
“The Russian Ambassador has explained that Russia does not want to interfere too much with Serbia. Compared to the former Russian Minister, the current Minister in Belgrade has more moderate views.”
Austria and Germany’s Influence
While M. Hartwegg was encouraging Serbia to break its promises with Bulgaria, Austria was advising Romania to demand Bulgarian land in exchange for staying neutral. At the same time, the German Emperor was pushing the Turks to keep resisting Guided Istanbul Tour.
