831.00/11–2548: Telegram
The Ambassador in Venezuela (Donnelly) to the Secretary of State
us urgent
Caracas, November 25,
1948.
Unnumbered. US press correspondents had an interview with Lt. Colonel Delgado Chalbaud, president military junta this afternoon and report as follows:
- (1)
- When asked about relations with the US he replied he expected them to remain on same cordial plane as before as the US is respected by armed forces.
- (2)
- He said statements to the effect this revolt has been a blow to democracy are unjustified but was in defense of democracy.
- (3)
- He was asked whether or not this movement was similar to that of Colonel Peron in Argentina. He answered: “Each country has its own problems and one cannot compare this with any other country. We want to state categorically this movement is not directed in any manner to instigate a military dictatorship. The national army as an institution is at the service of the nation and not of any group and it does not feed on political ambitions. When the army assumed the responsibility it had to assume it was not to act against democratic principles but on the contrary to save the existence of those principles that are the fundamental objectives of all Venezuelans.”
- (4)
- Elections. He said that it is hoped preparations will be made for elections at the soonest opportunity so that “the people of Venezuela can elect the government they want”.
- (5)
- He said certain elements in Army were going to arise in arms anyway yesterday and to avoid civil war the Army had to take measures. No measures have been taken against political parties but many of their leaders are under arrest.
- (6)
- Concerning President Gallegos, he said Gallegos could not cope with the situation. He stated election of Gallegos by AD was not in reality a popular election but was put through by a political party that had risen to power by force.
- (7)
- He refused to answer a question as to what would be the attitude of the new government towards Communism.
Donnelly