John de Robeck, August 1919–1922 Occupation of Constantinople

in august 1919 john de robeck replaced somerset arthur gough-calthorpe title of commander-in-chief, mediterranean, , high commissioner @ constantinople . responsible activities regarding russia , turkey (ottoman empire-turkish national movement).

john de robeck worried defiant mood of ottoman parliament. when 1920 arrived, concerned reports substantial stocks of arms reaching turkish revolutionaries, french , italian sources. in 1 of letters london, asked: against whom these sources employed?

in london, conference of london (february 1920) took place; featured discussions settling treaty terms offered in san remo. john de robeck reminded participants anatolia moving resistance stage. there arguments of national pact (misak-ı milli) circulating, , if these solidified, take longer time , more resources handle case (partitioning of ottoman empire). tried persuade leaders take quick action , control sultan , pressure rebels (from both directions). request posed awkward problems @ highest level: promises national sovereignty on table , united states fast withdrawing isolation.