German military and political elite and the Russo-Japanese war of 1904-1905
The article analyzes the German policy towards Russia before and during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905. The author argues that, contrary to conventional opinion, in the ranks of the German military and political elite there was no agreement on the question of Russia’s involvement in an armed conflict with Japan. Wilhelm II, Chancellor Bulow and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs believed that the war will benefit Germany. A. von Tirpitz and some of his subordinates were of the opinion that this situation is fraught with danger for the successful development of maritime policy in Germany.