The Mysterious Inaction of Allies During the Soviet Invasion of Poland

Introduction

The 1939 invasion of Poland by the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany remains a topic of historical debate. While the Allies, particularly the United Kingdom, ultimately declared war on both invaders in 1941, their initial inaction during the initial invasion in 1939 has long puzzled scholars and historians. This article explores the reasons behind this apparent inaction and the complexities of the agreements and alliances that shaped the initial response of the Allies.

The Context of the Invasion

The invasion of Poland in 1939 occurred against a backdrop of complex alliances and impending World War II. Both the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany invaded Poland from the east and west, respectively, in a coordinated operation. The invasion was initially viewed by the Allies, including the United Kingdom, with a certain level of suspicion, as both countries were still 'allies' under certain agreements.

The Treaty of Mutual Assistance

One of the key points of confusion stems from the Treaty of Mutual Assistance between the United Kingdom and Poland, signed on August 25, 1939. Despite the clear language in the agreement, the terms were further complicated by a secret protocol. The primary clause of the Treaty clearly stated that if one party became engaged in hostilities with a European power due to aggression by that power, the other party would provide assistance:

ARTICLE I:Should one of the Contracting Parties become engaged in hostilities with a European Power in consequence of aggression by the latter against that Contracting Party the other Contracting Party will at once give the Contracting Party engaged in hostilities all the support and assistance in its power.

However, the secret protocol added a crucial nuance:

Secret Protocol attached to the Agreement of Mutual Assistance between the United Kingdom and Poland signed on the 25th August 1939:The Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland and the Polish Government are agreed upon the following interpretation of the Agreement of Mutual Assistance signed this day as alone authentic and binding.1. a By the expression "Germany".  b In the event of action within the meaning of Article 1 or 2 of the Agreement by a European Power other than Germany the Contracting Parties will consult together on the measures to be taken in common.

This clause was likely inserted to avoid explicitly naming Germany as the likely aggressor, thereby preventing any legal or diplomatic complications with the other European powers.

Strategic Considerations

The initial inaction of the Allies during the Soviet invasion of Poland can be explained through strategic considerations. At the time, it was anticipated that the Soviet Union would either remain neutral or even support Poland against Germany. Considering this, the risk of driving a wedge between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany by declaring war on both was deemed too great. It was believed that allowing them to 'sort out' their differences would ultimately be more beneficial to the Allies in the long run.

The historical context also needs to be considered. The strategic alliance with the Soviet Union, formed under the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, was viewed as crucial in containing the expansion of Nazi Germany. By avoiding immediate conflict with the Soviet Union, the Allies could maintain this precarious balance while waiting for the inevitable conflict between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union.

Conclusion

The inaction of the Allies during the Soviet invasion of Poland in 1939, despite the apparent contradiction in the terms of the Treaty of Mutual Assistance, can be understood within the broader context of strategic alliances and anticipated future conflicts. The secret protocol and the broader geopolitical landscape played significant roles in shaping the Allies' response. Understanding these complexities helps provide a clearer picture of the decisions made during this tumultuous period of history.

Keywords: Soviet Union Invasion, Poland, Allies Inaction, Treaty Confusion