Spain declares neutral 1914

Ministry of State

Policy Section

Declares, unfortunately, the war between Germany, on the one hand, and Russia, France and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, successively, on the other, and the state of war existing in Austria-Hungary, Serbia and Belgium, the government of S.M. it is believe in the duty of ordering the strictest neutrality to the Spanish subjects, in accordance with the laws in force and the principles of international public law.

Consequently, it is known that Spaniards residents in Spain or aboard who exercise any hostile act that may be considered contrary to the most perfect neutrality, will grant the right to the protection of the government of S.M. and suffered the consequences of measures adopted by the belligerents, without prejudice to the penalties incurred in accordance with laws of Spain.

They will be punished, in accordance with national or foreign articles that verify or promote the recruitment of soldiers for any of the army or belligerent squads in Spanish territory.