832.796/291: Telegram
The Ambassador in Brazil (Caffery) to the Secretary of State
[Received 6:55 p.m.]
220. Department’s telegram No. 141, March 26 [25], 8 p.m.45 The Vasp president49 declared and repeated to me this morning that he will discharge every individual in the company, German or Italian or sympathizers, to whom we object if he can be sure that if he does so he will get the American planes. He insists that all German [Page 516] influence and control (other than above mentioned remaining Axis employees) have now been eliminated (I believe this is true).
I have had [information regarding?] Vasp personnel from 15 different sources and I am in position to point out the objectionable individuals in the company.
He reminded me that Vasp two pilots in Los Angeles [were] maintained there at considerable expense to the company.
If the planes can be obtained at an early date they will remain there and bring them back; if the planes cannot be furnished promptly he will bring his pilots back to Brazil and find other means of bringing the planes here as soon as they are available.
Vasp would very much like to acquire other American equipment but have not the cash available.
I have in mind the Department’s telegram No. 5 of January 4, 8 p.m., following which the Brazilian Government was secretly informed that “in return for the elimination of German influence and control this Government would take the necessary steps to obtain prompt release of equipment for Vasp et cetera” and adding “the lending agencies of this Government would undertake such financing of the equipment et cetera”; although I am not of the opinion that the amount [time] has yet come to implement that offer.
Department’s early observations would be appreciated.