739.00/10–1944

The Chargé in the Dominican Republic (Newbegin) to the Secretary of State

No. 430

Sir: I have the honor to report certain trends of Dominican foreign policy which have developed as a result of President Trujillo’s conviction that forces in the United States such as the State Department and sectors of public opinion are basically unfriendly to his régime.

As has been reported to the Department, President Trujillo in recent months appears to have feared that some action by the United States might precipitate a crisis resulting in his overthrowal. Whereas these fears have been overcome to a certain extent he nevertheless appears to have decided to intensify his policy of seeking wider recognition for the Dominican Republic, in the hope that it will tend to counterbalance this alleged attitude of the United States.

[Here follows a brief review of overtures reportedly made by President Trujillo to Brazil, Mexico, Spain, and the Holy See in the interests of closer and friendlier relations.]

It should not be inferred from this report that the Dominican Government has determined to depart in any way from its policy of full cooperation with the international policies of the United States, but merely that it foresees the possible development of strong democratic forces abroad which may oppose Trujillo’s administration, and consequently is taking every precaution to keep them from endangering the stability of the régime.

Respectfully yours,

Robert Newbegin