835.01/436: Telegram
The Ambassador in Argentina (Armour) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:01 p.m.]
1320. While Mexico’s decision to break united front of non-recognizing countries by attending all functions connected with May 25 celebration has fortunately not caused further defections, it will undoubtedly make position of other colleagues more difficult than ever since argument can now be put forward that if Mexico can attend without implying recognition why cannot the others. Prior to Mexican decision the issue was clear since practically all of my colleagues had agreed that our attendance at those functions would be exploited as a step toward recognition.
I presume Padilla realizes the effect of his action since it seems certain that as soon as Mexico’s defection becomes known the Government controlled press here and the anti-Argentine press abroad will make the most of it each in its own way.
Repeated to Mexico City.