724.3415/2844a
The Chairman of the Commission of Neutrals (White) to the Minister in Switzerland (Wilson), at Geneva
Dear Hugh: With regard to the suggestion of the League of Nations that a commission be sent to the Chaco composed of an American, an Argentine, and the national of some small European nation, the Bolivian Minister said that this proposal was a terrible “gaffe” on the part of the League. He said that it was well known that Argentina has not been neutral and has been supplying arms and munitions to Paraguay and has been giving them advice both politically and in military matters. He said the League should know the diplomatic situation between Argentina and Bolivia and should not have made the proposal. Bolivia, he said, had not alluded to this fact in politely rejecting the suggestion because they do not want to create an incident at this time and simply are not strong enough to fight both Argentina and Paraguay.
Our information checks up on all that he has said. We have it from our Military Attaché in Buenos Aires that considerable quantities of munitions have been sent from the Argentine arsenals to Paraguay. There was an Argentine Military Mission in Paraguay which Argentina very ostentatiously withdrew as a sign of its neutrality. The chief of this Mission was shortly afterwards appointed Military Attaché to Paraguay and is really the head adviser of the Paraguayan General Staff, making frequent trips to the front. Other members of [Page 266] the Mission drifted back secretly and are active in helping the Paraguayan army. Once or twice the Bolivians have been on the point of breaking off diplomatic relations with Argentina on account of Argentina’s activities but they have always gotten either an apology or a denial from Argentina and so have not done so. Furthermore, as the Minister stated, they do not think this is any time for them to create an incident with such an important neighbor as Argentina.
The Minister said that Costa du Rels will be instructed to bring this matter discreetly and privately to the attention of the League officials. I do not know whether he will do so or not but thought you ought to know the situation.
With all good wishes
Ever yours