711.35/4–1246: Telegram
The Chargé in Argentina (Cabot) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 13—7:39 p.m.]
1057. Series of announcements—notably appointment of Ambassador Messersmith,18 memo expressing conditional willingness to negotiate mutual assistance treaty including Argentina, easing of export restrictions and abolition of export licenses—together with widespread press speculation re better relations between US and Argentina and editorial comment in US critical of our Argentine policy have strongly suggested to Argentine Government and people that a major reorientation of our policy is in progress.
I feel that I should point out to Department that all of this publicity not only prejudices our bargaining position here but also (particularly in the absence of instructions to the Embassy before the news is published) is harmful to Embassy prestige. Embassy has been necessarily cautious in dealing with Perón emissaries (reEmbtel 956, April 319) and it is notable that none have come in last days.
Argentine pressure on Uruguay is clear indication that even though we must modify our position, it is imperative not to lose sight of the continued danger Perón represents for us and not to think that we can win his friendship by appeasement. I am hopeful that we can reach reasonably satisfactory relations with Perón government by a combination of diplomatic toughness and conciliation, each at proper time, because I think that we can make this to his interest and that he realizes this. However, Ambassador Messersmith should in my opinion be in as untrammeled a position as possible upon his arrival here to survey the situation and act accordingly. Prior to his arrival I feel that the less official statements or press speculation re our Argentine policy that are published the better.
Department will appreciate that in absence of instructions Embassy continues unable (Embtel 825, March 22) to take any constructive action or even to know what attitude to assume in reply to questions from triumphant Peronistas and disheartened Democrats.