"Our collaboration with the Germans can continue," Ulyanov stated. "The Germans are willing to help us rebuild our industrial system, which is undoubtedly the best possible outcome. However, we must not place our full trust in them. During the process of reconstructing the industrial system, we must ensure that it aligns with our wishes as much as possible, so as not to leave room for exploitation. Additionally, we must expedite the process. The Germans may not be willing to grant us as much time as we would like!"
Ulyanov privately added to his thoughts—he, too, might not have that much time left. He was acutely aware of the condition of his health and feared that his time might be running out. His only hope was to witness the strengthening of the Russian state and its ability to face formidable adversaries before his eyes closed forever.
"Yes, Comrade Chairman," the others replied in unison. Ulyanov's words had clearly set the tone for this collaboration. The others had no choice but to follow his directives. Disobedience would lead to severe consequences.
Ulyanov, despite being increasingly venerated as a near-mythical figure, was still human at his core. As time passed, he grew more attached to the power in his hands. Any challenge to that power was unbearable. Therefore, no one dared to provoke Ulyanov in this moment.
The approval from the group left Ulyanov greatly satisfied, and he nodded before continuing, "The third agreement primarily concerns the Germans offering to help us build a comprehensive transportation network. Does anyone have any objections?"
"Comrade Chairman, we absolutely cannot agree to the Germans' proposal. Once the transportation infrastructure is complete, the Germans will be able to use these routes to strike at the heart of our territory. This poses an immense threat to us. The Germans' intentions here are unquestionably malicious, and we must reject them!" Trotsky's stance was resolute.
"Are you implying that our military is so weak that it cannot withstand a German offensive?" Ulyanov's brow furrowed in dissatisfaction.
Trotsky flushed red, his words stifled for a moment before he finally spoke, "Comrade Chairman, our military strength is, indeed, no match for that of the Germans. They are the world's dominant power, with the strongest army and navy. If we hope to catch up with them, it will take an exceedingly long time."
Of course, Trotsky did not believe that Russia's military would ever surpass that of Germany. He viewed the country's inadequate transportation as a form of protection. Without it, the Germans would easily conquer them.
"Comrade Chairman, the reason Napoleon's invasion of Russia ended in disaster was not only due to the harsh winter but, more importantly, the country's inadequate transportation network, which caused the collapse of his supply lines. This is why Kutuzov's scorched earth strategy proved effective. If one day we face a German invasion, the scorched earth strategy may be our last resort!" Gamayev suggested.
Ulyanov nodded, fully aware of this point.
"Comrade Chairman, I believe we can look at this from a different angle. The improvement of our transportation network would indeed pose a threat to our safety. However, it would also enable the development of our industry and economy, making us stronger. If we build a powerful military on a foundation of national strength, we would be able to withstand any German offensive. At that point, the transportation network would no longer be a threat." Joseph said.
"Comrade Joseph, that is highly difficult! No matter how hard we try, building a military capable of defeating Germany seems almost impossible," Trotsky retorted.
"How can we know without trying? If even the chairman of the Military Committee and the Commissioner of the Army and Navy lacks confidence, how can we expect our military to defeat Germany?" Joseph mocked.
"You! I am being realistic!" Trotsky's face turned ashen.
"Enough! This is a Politburo meeting, not a marketplace! Silence!" Ulyanov thundered.
Joseph and Trotsky reluctantly fell silent, not daring to speak further.
"Are there any other objections?" Ulyanov inquired.
"Comrade Chairman, perhaps we can agree to the Germans' suggestion. However, the construction of roads and railways, and the standards to be used, must be decided by us. We could adopt the railway standards from the Tsarist era. This way, German trains will be unable to use our railways. As for the roads, while building them may not be difficult, destroying them would be equally simple. If the situation deteriorates, we can simply destroy the roads and railways, preventing the Germans from utilizing them. I believe that even if we go to war with Germany, it will not happen for many years. In the meantime, we can fully leverage the transportation network to develop our economy and industry," Krestinsky proposed.
"Comrade Krestinsky's suggestion is excellent. This way, we can develop our industry and economy while ensuring our security. Once our strength grows, our safety will truly be assured!" Joseph immediately responded.
Trotsky's face darkened further, as if it were scorched black.
"Comrade Krestinsky's idea is indeed good. We will proceed with this plan," Ulyanov affirmed.
"Comrade Chairman, why not entrust this plan entirely to Comrade Krestinsky?" Joseph suggested.
Ulyanov thought for a moment, then nodded, "Very well. This task will be entrusted to you. No objections, Comrade Krestinsky?"
"No objections, Comrade Chairman. I promise to complete this task!" Krestinsky replied firmly.
"Foolish man! Sold out by Joseph and still counting his money for him!" Trotsky inwardly cursed. He saw through Joseph's scheme. By assigning this task to Krestinsky, Joseph could escape responsibility. If anything went wrong with the plan in the future, Joseph could easily shift the blame.
And Krestinsky, the fool, unwittingly accepted the task, thinking it a prestigious one. Soon, he would learn the true nature of the matter.