832.796/658: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Brazil (Caffery)
1336. Your 1981, December 10, 11 p.m.77 This Government is now compelled to regard Lati, which is definitely a military weapon of the Axis, in an entirely different light. The declaration of war against the United States by Japan, Germany and Italy makes it now a matter of vital military necessity to eliminate Lati at once. Please inquire of the Brazilian Government what steps it is taking.
The regular PAA78 North Atlantic service to Lisbon may shortly be suspended, and the proposed South Atlantic substitute service to replace Lati would be affected in the same way. However, the Department proposes to seek War and Navy Department approval of a more limited substitute service, say from Natal to a friendly African terminus where junction might be made with an Africa to Great Britain service.