860H.00/1240: Telegram
The Minister in Yugoslavia (Lane) to the Secretary of State
[Received March 28—7:30 p.m.]
251. A successful military coup d’état took place at approximately 2:15 this morning under the leadership of General Simovich, Chief of Aviation. A manifesto made public early this morning and signed by King Peter II states that he has assumed power, that the regents have resigned and that Yugoslavia hopes for external and internal [Page 969] peace and appeals to the population to support the throne. The constitution of the new Government under General Simovich as Prime Minister was announced at about 9:30 this morning. It includes Maček as Vice President and Ninčić as Foreign Minister. All major parties are represented.
There was wild enthusiasm in Belgrade this morning with continuous demonstrations including two in front of this Legation. The three regents and leading members of the former government including Cvetkovic and Cincar-Markovic are reported to be under arrest, but this information has not been officially confirmed. It is announced from radio cars that the coup d’état has been acclaimed in cities throughout the country including Zagreb.
We may shortly be compelled to destroy all codes and ciphers except Gray. Suggest Department use Gray Code only in communicating with this Mission until further notice. Foregoing drafted March 27, noon.
Repeated to Ankara, Bucharest, Budapest, Rome, Sofia.