The Uncertain Guest

Apparently furious at the prospect of East German Leader Erich Honecker's tentatively scheduled visit to West Germany Sept. 26-29, the Soviets stepped up their efforts last week to sow discontent between the two countries. Soviet commentators did little to else but denounce West German "revanchism," the desire to restore pre-World War II boundaries, describing the country as virtually a reborn Third Reich that is preparing to launch another blitzkrieg against the Soviet Union. Despite an improving relationship between East and West Germany this year, Honecker may decide not to brave such Soviet opposition. Indeed, when officials in Bonn and East Berlin conferred to settle details of the trip, the East Germans withheld official notification that it would take place.

Still hopeful, West German Foreign Minister Hans-Dietrich Genscher emphasized that the Honecker visit was "meaningful and necessary." But pessimism increased when the usually well-informed Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung reported that Honecker would "probably" put off his trip until the end of the year, allowing him time to consult with Soviet officials before going to West Germany.