On December 23rd, the eve of Christmas, Ulyanov convened a meeting of the Supreme Committee once again in the Winter Palace. The sole agenda was how to respond to the military threat posed by Germany.
"Comrades, based on our latest intelligence, two German corps have mobilized and are already approaching the border. It appears they are poised to launch an attack on us. If we do not acquiesce to their demands soon, their forces will directly assault us. Although these two German corps comprise merely over three hundred thousand men, let us not forget that on the Eastern Front, the Germans previously annihilated nearly two million Russian troops with less than two hundred thousand soldiers! Thus, should the German army commence an offensive, what means do we have to withstand it? We cannot withstand such an onslaught! Therefore, we have no choice but to accept their demands," Joseph declared, his anguish palpable.
"Hmph! It is winter now; even if the Germans intend to attack, they would not choose this moment. Their actions are merely an attempt to intimidate us," Trotsky replied, his expression impassive.
"Comrade Trotsky, there is indeed a strong possibility that the Germans are attempting to intimidate us. However, what if this is not merely intimidation but a genuine threat? What then shall we do? Can our forces withstand a German offensive?" Joseph inquired.
Trotsky fell silent. While he believed the German military was merely flexing its muscles, he could not be entirely certain. Faced with Joseph's question, he found himself at a loss for words. It would be unconscionable to assert that they could resist the might of the German army—the world's preeminent military force, against which no army could confidently claim to stand firm.
"Comrade Joseph, what benefits have you received to so fervently advocate for the Germans?" Gaminyov sneered.
"Comrade Gaminyov, that is an unfounded accusation—an outright slander! I am a loyal member of the Bolshevik Party. All I do is for the sake of our party's interests. I cannot bear to see our hard-won successes squandered," Joseph replied, adopting a posture of lofty principle.
Gaminyov was poised to counter, but Ulyanov intervened.
"Enough! Let us cease the personal attacks. We are here to discuss how to resolve our issues, not to launch verbal assaults," Ulyanov said, his demeanor stern.
Instantly, the room fell silent, the others refraining from further comments. No one could rival Ulyanov's standing within the Bolshevik Party; his words were rarely disputed.
"Gentlemen, our situation is indeed precarious. I, too, hope that the Germans are merely posturing. However, none can ascertain whether this is merely a threat or a precursor to an attack. Were it not for the dissenting factions among us, we might gamble on it. Even if we lost, it would not be the end of the world. Unfortunately, we currently face both internal strife and external danger. Having a formidable power like Germany as our ally is far preferable to having them as our enemy, even if this alliance may not endure for long. However, for the sake of our party and our hard-earned victories, we cannot take unnecessary risks," Ulyanov stated.
Many were swayed by Ulyanov's reasoning, nodding in agreement. Yet, a substantial number remained unconvinced.
"Well then, I have expressed my views. Let us proceed to a vote!" Ulyanov declared.
Such a significant matter could not rest solely on his shoulders; it required collective input. Nevertheless, as the leader, his opinion carried the most weight.
The Supreme Committee began the voting process. Out of the thirteen members, only five sided with Ulyanov, while eight opposed him.
"Comrades, is this truly your choice? Do you intend to watch our revolution falter? Currently, due to our weakened state, we are compelled to compromise. Once we grow stronger and no longer fear the Germans, we can readily nullify any treaty. Ultimately, the world is governed by might. Those with the strongest fists hold the truth. Even as we aspire to spread our revolution globally, liberating millions of impoverished and exploited souls, without substantial military power, all our ambitions are in vain!" Ulyanov lamented.
The following day, the Supreme Committee reconvened for another vote, yet Ulyanov reiterated his familiar arguments. This time, the results stood at 6 to 7, with opposition prevailing by a single vote.
Ulyanov was utterly at a loss. He had never anticipated such a scenario given his status within the party. Shouldn't his stature alone compel immediate compliance? After pleading his case for so long, how could these members still fail to grasp the gravity of the situation? This fueled his anger and heightened his vigilance.
"It seems I have been entirely misled by these individuals. I once believed they would heed my words. Yet, it has become evident they have been dismissive. Once this crisis passes, I will ensure these individuals are dealt with," Ulyanov resolved inwardly.
The failure of yet another vote deeply dampened Ulyanov's spirits.
"Comrade Trotsky, please come to my office!" Ulyanov commanded.
"Yes, leader," Trotsky acknowledged with a nod.
Upon Trotsky's arrival at Ulyanov's office, he was greeted by Ulyanov's stormy countenance.
"Comrade Trotsky, do you also oppose our compromise with the Germans?" Ulyanov queried.
"Yes, leader. I have always believed the Germans are merely trying to intimidate us!" Trotsky replied.
"But what if they truly intend to take action? Shall we merely watch as our revolution crumbles?" Ulyanov pressed.
Trotsky found himself at a loss for words.
"Comrade Trotsky, all we do is for the ultimate triumph of our revolution! Making sacrifices now is a necessary investment in our future victory," Ulyanov began to persuade him earnestly.