Lunchtime: Berchtold has
Posted on July 26th, 1914 by admin
Lunchtime: Berchtold has now seen the telegram from Szögyény saying Berlin believes Vienna should declare war on Serbia immediately to avoid diplomatic pressure for a settlement. Berchtold calls in Conrad and says he wants a declaration of war as soon as possible.
Conrad prefers to wait until mobilisation is complete on the 12 August and he can start military operations. Berchtold believes the diplomatic situation won’t hold that long. Conrad also wants to gain a better understanding of Russia’s attitude before committing the army. No final decision is made but preparations are put in hand for a declaration of war. [More]