The Straits Regime
Although there is general agreement on the need for the revision of the Montreux Convention, it is doubtful if the Soviet Government will gain much support for the proposals outlined in its Note to Turkey. While the first three clauses, dealing with the passage of shipping through the Straits, are substantially the same as those put forward by America, there is a fundamental difference in the pro- visions for the future regime. In the Soviet Note it is suggested that "the regime of the Straits . . . must constitute the com- petence of Turkey and the other Bladt Sea Powers," and that "Turkey and the Soviet Union . . . should organise by joint means the defence of the Straits." If this means what it appears to mean, then it would involve the establishment of Soviet bases on Turkish territory and the partial surrender by Turkey of her rights of sovereignty. This, indeed, has been the policy of the Soviet for some time. As long ago as June, 1945, when a new Treaty of Friendship was under discussion, similar proposals were put forward, together with suggestions concerning the ceding to Russia of certain Turkish territory. It is certain that the new Turkish Government will be no more ready than was, the old to discuss a suggestion which makes her, in effect, a vassal of the Soviet Union. In this she can count on the support of Great Britain and America, who are equally interested in preserving the inter- national character of the new regime. However Turkey may decide to reply to the Russian Note, it is fairly certain that the matter will be referred to an international conference, probably under the auspices of the United Nations.
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