December 9, 1924
Grand Duchess Victoria Feodorovna of Russia spoke today on the political situation in Russia, breaking her "strict silence on political questions" since her recent arrival in New York City.
The wife of Grand Duke Kirill, who recently proclaimed himself as the head of the former Imperial House, is staying at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. In her "brief interview" with newspaper reporters, the Grand Duchess said she would not discuss politics. She repeated several times that the only reason for her trip to the United States was to bring thanks "for the financial aid Americans rendered Russian refugees.
One reporter asked: "Do you believe that the Russians want a monarchy, or are they satisfied with the present form of government."
Victoria Feodorovna: "I feel that our people want a monarchy."
Reporter: "Do you believe they are calling to you?"
Victoria Feodorovna: "Yes, very much so. Yes, they are calling to us. Every sane person knows they are dissatisfied with the present Government. Just read their statistics and you will find out why. But I cannot talk politics with you, and I hope you will not stress what I have just said, but will only say that I am not here with any political motive."
The Grand Duchess was also asked about an Associated Press dispatch from Berlin yesterday saying that Grand Duke Kirill may soon have to leave Coburg, where on August 8, 1922, he issued a manifesto proclaiming himself heir to the late Nicholas II.
Grand Duchess Victoria said she read the report. "It is not true. It is just more propaganda. That report has been printed many times before."
She has not been able to go shopping. "They don't give me enough time for that," she said, with a smile.
In an earlier interview, she said she was engrossed with crossword puzzles. "I have tried three, and have not solved one." She did enjoy trying, and believed that cross word puzzles might "find favor" in Russia."
"The whole world is a puzzle just now," she added.
Another reporter asked: "Do you find that New Yorkers really rush around as much as they are said to do?"
Victoria Feodorovna: "Yes, I do, and I enjoy seeing it. I like to see people who get a move on."
She expressed an advocacy of "careers for women," adding that "Russian women are independent to a large degree and very serious." She said she is not as accomplished as her older sister, Queen Marie of Romania, who "writes, paints, and sculptures."
Later today, Grand Duchess Victoria will leave for Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.
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