831.00/12–748: Circular telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to Diplomatic Representatives in the American Republics
Dept will issue at 10:30 A.M. Dec 8 following press release:
“Charges have appeared in the press that United States petroleum companies backed the military group which recently overthrew the Government of President Rómulo Gallegos in Venezuela.
At least two American petroleum companies are reported by the press to have already issued statements denying any intervention in Venezuelan internal affairs. The Department of State knows of no evidence or indications of any kind which would give the slightest support to such charges. It can be stated that as far as is known to the Department American companies and other entities represented in Venezuela avoided participation of any kind in the Venezuelan revolution of last month. Americans residing abroad have repeatedly been warned that interference in the domestic political affairs of foreign states may result in the withdrawal of U.S. Government protection, and the Department takes this opportunity of reiterating and emphasizing this injunction.”