731.00/11–2850: Telegram

The Chargé in Venezuela ( Sparks ) to the Secretary of State

confidential   priority

314. In formal note1 Foreign Ministry informs me since death Delgado Chalbaud2 left vacant presidency of Military Junta government and act constituting provisional government 24 November 1948 [Page 1042] did not provide for filling vacancy, it has been necessary modify said act and designate person to exercise presidency. In conformity with act of yesterday Suarez Flamerich will fill vacancy, has taken oath and assumed charge. Foreign Ministry states Junta in future will be “Junta of Government of US of Venezuela.”

While modification of Act of 1948 might possibly be construed as change in basic organization of provisional government, thus involving question of recognition. Ambassador Armour and I agree this question should not be raised. Our opinion is based on:

(1)
Junta obtained Venezuelan armed forces agreement to modification;
(2)
Appointment of civilian as president of Junta despite reported strong opposition in armed forces is decided step toward return to constitutional processes;
(3)
Action apparently has broad acceptance throughout Venezuela;
(4)
Statements of Pérez, Jimenez November 23 and Suarez Flame-rich yesterday emphasized principal objective present last phase of Junta is restoration of republican institutions through elections to be held soonest with full guarantees to responsible political organizations acting within law.

In view foregoing we consider question of recognition should not be raised and we urgently recommend that I reply affirmatively to Foreign Ministry’s note and that letters of credence for Ambassador Armour requested Embtel 308, November 27,3 be sent at once.4

Sparks
  1. Not printed.
  2. Assassinated November 13.
  3. Not printed.
  4. In telegram 196 to Caracas, November 29, the Department stated: “Dept agrees ur conclusion no question recognition need or shld be raised and authorizes you ack FonMin’s note.” (123 Armour, Norman) Ambassador Armour presented his credentials and assumed charge of the Mission on December 7.