Chapter 239: Franz's Intentions
In a meeting between Bismarck and General Moltke, discussions revolved around the escalating tensions with France.
"Your Excellency, Prime Minister! The French are humiliating Prussia. It's time to showcase the achievements of the Prussian army's reforms over the years," Moltke emphasized, his desire for victory evident in his sharp gaze. He also hoped to secure a promising future for his son.
Bismarck responded with caution, recognizing the formidable strength of France. He emphasized the importance of both military prowess and diplomatic efforts. Prussia had already signed offensive and defensive alliance treaties with the southern German states, effectively turning this into a German-French conflict, not just a French-Prussian one.
The key concern was the stance of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the likelihood of them sending troops was slim, contingent on Emperor Franz's personal decisions.
Russia had deployed troops on the Russian-Austrian border, promising to support Prussia if Austria joined the Franco-Prussian War. The subsequent developments favored Russia and Prussia, ultimately leading to the unification of Germany. In return, Bismarck helped Russia escape the constraints of the Black Sea neutrality clause from the 1856 "Paris Peace Treaty."
Britain, being a creditor nation to Prussia, supported their cause financially. However, the most significant factor remained the sheer might of France, then under Napoleon III, with a strong economy and the world's second-largest colonial empire.
France's only potential ally was the Austro-Hungarian Empire. However, Napoleon III's foreign policies were often criticized as misguided. He supported the unification of Italy and even sent troops to protect the Papal State, causing tensions with Italy. This failure to win over the Austro-Hungarian Empire further complicated the situation.
Just as Bismarck and Moltke deliberated, an urgent knock on the door interrupted them.
"Come in!" Bismarck exclaimed, although he was annoyed at the interruption, knowing that their conversation held great significance.
The messenger delivered crucial intelligence information to Bismarck. It stated that the Austro-Hungarian army had made significant changes, with elite troops from Slovakia being transferred, and their new deployment seemed to originate from southern Austria.
Moltke questioned Franz's intentions, given that Russia had just deployed troops on their border, making this an inopportune time for Austria to reshuffle their defenses.
Bismarck speculated about various possibilities but couldn't definitively ascertain Franz's true motive. Excluding Italy and the Balkans, the reasons for such a redeployment remained unclear.
Bismarck concluded that, for now, they could be certain that the Austro-Hungarian Empire had no immediate plans to intervene in Prussia. Nevertheless, the situation was puzzling, as no major events had occurred recently in Austria-Hungary.
Despite Prince Constantine's adventurous spirit in exploring opportunities in Africa, this move didn't seem to have any significant implications for Germany.
Moltke suggested that, with Austria-Hungary showing disinterest in Germany, they could focus more on the looming conflict with France. However, Bismarck remained cautious, mindful of Hungary's potential objections to Germany's increased attention. The situation within the Austro-Hungarian Empire was complex, with various internal dynamics at play.