710.Consultation (3)/18: Telegram

The Secretary of State to the Ambassador in Colombia ( Braden )

10. From the Under Secretary. Your 9, January 3, 10 p.m.28 I handed to the Colombian Ambassador29 4 days ago a draft resolution providing for the breaking of all relations between all of the American Republics and the Axis powers which this Government hopes will be unanimously adopted at the Rio de Janeiro Conference. The Ambassador has informed me that his Government will of course be wholly in accord with this resolution.

It is my further belief that this resolution will be supported, in addition to the 10 Republics which have declared war and the 3 Republics which have already broken all relations, by the Governments of Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Peru. It is my further belief that Paraguay will support any position which may be taken by Brazil.

I am as yet uncertain of the position which will be taken by Chile and it is my understanding that the Chilean Government, being fearful of its long and relatively unprotected coastline, may hesitate against taking any action against the Axis powers unless all of the other American Republics insist that such action as that above indicated be unanimously taken.

With regard to the position of Argentina, I am as yet uncertain. As you know, the Argentine people in their vast majority seem to be strongly opposed to the hesitant course so far followed by their Government. I am inclined to believe however that Argentina will not permit herself to be placed in a minority of one at the meeting, even on an issue of this fundamental character.

It may be wiser for you to speak directly with President Santos with regard to the above than with the Foreign Minister.30 Please state that this Government will appreciate any assistance and support which Colombia can afford prior to the Conference in urging the [Page 14] Chilean and Argentine Governments’ support for the steps contemplated in the resolution in question. [Welles.]

Hull
  1. Not printed; it indicated that Colombia would support the United States at Rio de Janeiro (706.6535/18).
  2. Gabriel Turbay.
  3. Luis Lopez de mesa.