420.118/4–2650: Airgram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Cuba
A–141. When the Council of the Organization of American States began consideration of the charges of Haiti and the Dominican Republic against the governments of the Dominican Republic and of Cuba and Guatemala, the Department adopted a policy of refusing to permit the export of armaments to those four countries. (Exception has been made in the case of non-military armaments such as 22 calibre rifles and ammunition.)
For your information, the Department has concluded that this ban on the export of armaments to the four countries involved in the recent disputes will be maintained until the Department is satisfied that the situation in the Caribbean has become sufficiently tranquilized. The Department will give this matter continued consideration with a view to removing the ban on normal exports of armaments as soon as circumstances so warrant. The Embassy will be advised of any change in this regard.1
- In telegram 11, July 10, 1950, to Habana, the Department stated: “In view generally favorable report Special Comite COAS, Dept now feels temporary prohibition arms and equipment to Cuba, Dom Rep, Haiti and Guat can now be lifted, Dept A–141, Apr. 26. Ambs these govts in Wash being advised tomorrow.” (420.118/7–1050) For the functions of the Special Committee for the Caribbean, set up under Resolution III, April 8, 1950, of the COAS acting as Organ of Consultation, see Annals, 1950, p. 149. For the Special Committee’s First Report of June 30, 1950, see ibid., pp. 406–410.↩