In the Winter Palace of Saint Petersburg, members of the Supreme Committee of the Bolshevik Party were gathered around the conference table, each holding a telegram sent by Trotsky from Brest. The telegram detailed the Germans' unwavering stance and the harsh conditions they proposed. The severity of these terms left the Bolshevik leaders utterly astonished.
"The Germans are clearly attempting to extort us; such conditions are utterly unacceptable. Otherwise, Russia will be reduced to a second-rate nation," Kaminiev declared, his face flushed with indignation.
Should the Bolsheviks acquiesce to these demands, they would not only forfeit millions of square kilometers of territory but also lose nearly forty percent of the population and over half of their industrial capacity. Coupled with the loss of resources, this would eradicate any potential for Russia to remain a great power. The Bolshevik leaders were unwilling to see the nation they aspired to lead descend into such a state.
Ulyanov's expression was equally grim. He, too, was taken aback by the Germans' insatiable appetite. Initially, he had believed that while the Germans might seek to carve out a slice of Russia, they would not impose overly harsh terms. After all, the Bolsheviks were not fools; they would never agree to such demanding conditions. Yet now, Ulyanov had to admit he had underestimated the Germans' ambitions, which were clearly aimed at devouring a significant portion of Russia—specifically its most valuable assets.
Ulyanov found it impossible to accept these conditions, yet he was deeply concerned. What severe repercussions might arise if they rejected the Germans' terms? If the German military launched an attack on Russia, could they withstand it? Would their revolution fail as a consequence? In such a scenario, not only might they lose their lives, but their ideals would be irrevocably shattered.
This uncertainty caused Ulyanov to grapple with fear and doubt. Perhaps it is human nature that before achieving success, one can charge forward without hesitation; yet, once success is within reach, one becomes hesitant and anxious. Even leaders like Ulyanov are not immune to such vulnerabilities.
Joseph, on the other hand, felt a sense of relief that this burden did not fall on his shoulders. If it had, he would be in a state of turmoil. He felt a measure of satisfaction at having maneuvered a trap for the formidable Trotsky.
Despite the indignant outrage expressed by the members of the Supreme Committee, who vehemently condemned the Germans as deceitful and greedy, Joseph understood that under the threat posed by Germany, they had little choice but to compromise.
As expected, after the delegates had denounced the Germans, Ulyanov began to solicit opinions.
"Comrades, should we accept the Germans' harsh conditions? If we do not, what consequences might we face? Let us analyze this carefully," Ulyanov stated.
"Leader, the Germans' demands are utterly intolerable; we cannot accept them!" Kaminiev vehemently opposed.
Several other members quickly echoed his sentiments, agreeing that the conditions put forth by the Germans were excessively harsh and insincere. Accepting such terms would undoubtedly render them traitors to Russia.
At that moment, Joseph interjected, "Comrades, if we refuse the Germans' terms, what actions might they take? Is the potential fallout something we can endure?"
Joseph's words fell like a bombshell, silencing the room. Everyone recognized the validity of his argument. After all, Germany was extraordinarily powerful, and rejecting their terms would invite their wrath. The prospect of facing that wrath was daunting, and no one dared to guarantee their ability to withstand it.
Currently, the Bolsheviks were still too weak. Although they controlled a large armed force, against the formidable German military, they would appear to be nothing more than a rabble. They were well aware of the German victories on the Eastern Front. The most elite units of the Russian army had been no match for the Germans, and they were far from that strength now.
"Comrades, especially given our current internal and external challenges, we must manage this situation with utmost care. Otherwise, the consequences could be dire," Joseph continued.
Indeed, many members' expressions turned grave at his words.
"Joseph, are you suggesting we should acquiesce to the Germans' extortion? How is that any different from treason?" Kaminiev retorted.
"Comrade Kaminiev, I am not advocating for treason; I am considering the interests of the party. We have fought tirelessly to reach this point! How many comrades have been murdered by Tsar Nicholas II? If we provoke Germany into launching a major offensive against us, leading to our revolution's failure, we will have no future opportunities," Joseph said, feigning concern for the party and its cause.
However, Joseph's words did resonate with many. The Bolshevik Party had faced immense challenges to arrive at this juncture. Tsar Nicholas II had consistently suppressed and persecuted them, leading to the loss of countless lives. Even Ulyanov himself had been exiled to Siberia, nearly losing his own life.
"Humph! Joseph, you are indulging in alarmism. The Germans are currently preoccupied with their conflicts against the British and French empires; they have no surplus forces to direct against us," Kaminiev was not easily swayed.
"Indeed, the Germans may not commit their main forces to us. However, even if they dispatch a single army group, we would likely be unable to withstand them. Furthermore, the Austro-Hungarian Empire is also eyeing us warily. Their previous offensive may have been thwarted, but no one can guarantee they won't try again. If the Germans attack us, the Austro-Hungarians would surely join in. The consequences would be severe. Moreover, if Germany emerges victorious in future conflicts, they will undoubtedly direct their full might against us. At that point, will we have the strength to resist? Thus, I believe it is wiser to negotiate a treaty with Germany and withdraw from the war as soon as possible!" Joseph urged.