In Belgium… The Mechelen incident of January 10th has been followed by much diplomatic activity. For a time the British and French have believed that they will be invited to move troops into Belgium even before a German attack but this possibility is now firmly ruled out by the Belgian government.

The Winter War… The Soviet forces begin to bombard the Finnish lines around Summa. This softening-up process will continue until the end of the month, giving the defending Finnish troops little rest and doing considerable damage to their defenses.

In Cairo… General Sir Archibald Wavell is appointed the British Commander-in-Chief Middle East.