บท 28: Negotiation
After the bourgeois revolution, Sultan Abdul Hamid II, who retained little real power, also attended a critical meeting concerning the fate of the Ottoman Empire. As the nominal leader, he initiated the discussion by asking the government officials present, "What should we do now?"
In response to the Sultan's query, Mohammed Rifat Pasha, the Foreign Minister, expressed his views on the crisis. "Your Royal Highness, regarding Bosnia-Herzegovina, we should negotiate with Austria-Hungary for compensation. After all, they have administered the region for 30 years, and their intentions are well-known."
The Foreign Minister then shifted the focus to Bulgaria's declaration of independence. "I believe it is necessary to mobilize our army to the Bulgarian frontier. We must publicly express our disapproval of Bulgaria's unilateral move. Our next steps should be informed by the stance of the European powers."
Mohammed Rifat Pasha had been the Minister of Foreign Affairs for nine years. His diplomatic methods were polished, and he understood the Sultan's concerns well. However, as a seasoned politician, he was cautious in his approach.
Following the Foreign Minister's proposal, the Secretary of War, El Pasha, shared his perspective. "I concur with the Foreign Minister. The military can only focus its resources effectively in one direction at a time. Bulgaria's proximity to our capital is a significant threat—it's merely a week's march away. Allowing Bulgarian independence could embolden other Balkan states to contemplate secession, particularly in regions like Albania, Thrace, and Macedonia. This would inevitably increase the burden on our military forces."
After El Pasha's remarks, the Finance Minister, Camille Pasha, voiced his concerns. "Are we to simply wait for the European powers to decide our fate? It is well-known that Bulgaria enjoys Russian support. With Russia, France, and Britain closely aligned, can we afford to just sit back?"
Camille Pasha's stance was clear. If war broke out against Bulgaria, the Macedonian Army of the Young Turkish Party would be at the forefront. Talat Pasha, the leader of the Young Turkey Party, challenged the Finance Minister's apprehension. "Does the Finance Minister not see the bigger picture? It's not Bulgaria we fear, but the Russian influence behind it. How do you propose we counter that, honorable Minister?"
The Finance Minister retorted confidently, "Is it not the duty of your forces to defend against foreign aggression?"
"We have offered advice, but it was disregarded," Talat Pasha shot back.
The argument escalated until Enver Pasha, a celebrated figure of the revolution, decided to intervene. "Your Royal Highness, I volunteer to lead our forces at the Bulgarian border. Should war erupt, I will be at the forefront. The Young Turkish Party and I are prepared to sacrifice everything for our nation."
Sultan Abdul Hamid II, whose authority had been significantly undermined by Enver Pasha and others, responded with a mix of gratitude and resignation. "It pleases me to see such patriotism. Your fervor is palpable, and I trust that your desires align with the nation's needs."
Privately, Enver Pasha saw this as an opportunity to bolster his image and influence. The title of "freedom hero" was no longer sufficient for his ambitions. Greater power was his true aim.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continued. The Ottoman Empire engaged in talks with Austria-Hungary about compensation for Bosnia-Herzegovina while also deploying troops to the Bulgarian border. Bulgaria, sensing the imminent threat, reciprocated by fortifying its own border, which prompted Russian mediation.
In St. Petersburg, Tsar Nicholas II was ready to support Bulgaria. "We must back Bulgaria and draw them into our sphere," he declared.
This directive was relayed to the Russian ambassador in Turkey, Ambassador Midnovich, who promptly visited the Ottoman Foreign Ministry. Meeting with Mohammed Rifat Pasha, he expressed concern over the escalating tensions. "Your Excellency, the ongoing situation between your country and Bulgaria benefits no one," he stated diplomatically.
Mohammed Rifat Pasha responded firmly, "Bulgaria's unilateral declaration is not only disrespectful but also a breach of the Berlin Treaty. We are justified in considering strong countermeasures."
Ambassador Midnovich replied, "While Bulgaria's full independence reflects the will of its people, their failure to consult the Ottoman Empire was indeed an oversight. I will convey your dissatisfaction to the Bulgarian government and expect that they will extend an apology."
Faced with Russia's overt support for Bulgaria, Mohammed Rifat Pasha sought assistance from other quarters. He invited the British ambassador, Hilke, to a dinner where he shared the dire circumstances facing the Ottoman Empire and requested British support.
Ambassador Hilke, after listening attentively, reassured the Foreign Minister. "Your concerns are valid, and Bulgaria's actions are indeed regrettable. I will report back to my government, and I am confident that Britain will offer support."
Back in London, Prime Minister Asquith, after reviewing the situation, instructed the British ambassador to negotiate with Russia for some form of compensation for the Ottomans. "The Balkans are a constant source of irritation. Let's see if we can ease the situation somewhat."
Foreign Secretary Edward Gray agreed, noting, "The Ottomans are often bullied by the Russians. Whenever Russia is involved, there's always a commotion. But it's Germany that truly worries us now. Have they launched any new ships?"
Following diplomatic negotiations, Russia agreed to waive the Turkish indemnity from the 1878 war. In return, the Ottoman Empire would drop its demands for compensation from Bulgaria and recognize its independence.
Mohammed Rifat Pasha, faced with this proposal, asked reluctantly, "Is there no room for modification?"
"I believe this is the best that the British Empire can do," replied Ambassador Hilke, glancing at his Russian counterpart who added, "This is also Russia's final offer."
With a heavy heart, the Ottoman Empire accepted the terms. Further negotiations with Austria-Hungary concluded with the Ottomans relinquishing nominal suzerainty over Bosnia and Herzegovina for a sum of 2.5 million pounds. Thus, the response of the Ottoman Empire to the violations of the Berlin Treaty by Austria-Hungary and Bulgaria was largely dictated by the European powers.
This resolution exposed the vulnerability of Turkey and signaled to the Balkan states the diminishing influence of the Ottoman Empire in European affairs.
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