831.001 Gallegos, Romulo/12–648: Telegram
The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Venezuela
511. Following sent to Emb Habana Dec. 10:
“Dept and Amb Caracas seriously concerned regarding charges attributed by press to Pres Gallegos of Venezuela that US oil companies were behind military revolution which overthrew Gallegos and that US Mil Attaché acted as ‘cooperator and counselor’ for revolutionists.
[Page 144]“Following is statement of facts as cabled by Emb Caracas: (Repeated full texts Embtels 939 and 9511).
“In view seriousness charges Dept considers it inadvisable defer issuance press statement until after interview with Gallegos. Text statement made will be sent you by telegram.2
“Dept feels sending officer from Wash to confer with Gallegos would tend overemphasize situation, possibly result in too much publicity and prejudice relations with new Venez regime. Subject your approval, suggest Allan Stewart3 your staff discreetly contact Gallegos and explain circumstances outlined in Caracas tels.… He may say Dept and Emb Caracas sincerely regret Col. Adams’4 presence at Min Nat Def and Miraflores misinterpreted, assure him US always friendly his Govt. He may also say Dept has instructed Amb Caracas inform Brinsmade5 Depts strong disapproval his actions and warn him loss of Govt protection.
“Dept convinced oil industry not involved in any way; would appreciate knowing basis for Gallegos charges which will be thoroughly investigated. Dept in close touch with representatives principal oil companies during crisis and can assure Gallegos they expressed no sentiments favorable his overthrow and on contrary indicated satisfaction with cooperation received his Govt. Major companies agreed in principle to 50 percent excess profits tax many months ago and no reason believe they changed position.
“If Gallegos raises question US relations with new Venez Govt Stewart may explain US endeavoring adhere strictly inter-American commitments which expressly condemn use recognition as political weapon. Dept also considering issuance statement making clear we favor democratic constitutional procedures and decry use force in effecting political changes.
“US Govt has always considered Gallegos sincere friend of US spite charges his political opponents and regrets his present apparent feeling hostility.
“Inform Dept and Emb Caracas soonest action taken.”