180. Telegram From the Embassy in Argentina to the Department of State 1
1661. On April 20 [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] (who is close to military), referred in conversation with me to military criticism of government, justifying it on ground it served as constructive opposition, and predicted some high level changes in government.
Recently Army Secretary Solanas Pacheco gave talks to military personnel in various parts of country. He said among other things that there were persons of doubtful antecedents in government and that some charges of corruption had not been sufficiently clarified. He implied that some changes within government had been brought about through army pressure or influence. At same time, he cautioned army against acting other than democratically.
Later, Air Force Secretary Abrahim made similar statement to Air Force.
Navy Secretary Estevez has made no such statement to Navy [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] report from Navy officer who said he is one of a group which is plotting to overthrow government and that there is a strong desire in Navy to do this. Available information indicated Estevez supports constitutionality.
President Frondizi in his May 1 address to Congress indicated clearly armed forces have no political role in country and that he will carry out all his constitutional obligations. He warned against trying to change government by violence, saying elections were available means. He was strongly applauded because of these statements.
During last several weeks there have been rumors concerning (1) possible military coup d’état, and (2) impending Cabinet changes. Cabinet members slated to be replaced according to such rumors are Florit, Tedin and Orfila, although others also mentioned at times.
Foregoing indicates there is sufficient criticism of government within armed forces to cause Army Secretary and Air Force Secretary to make statements referred to above and for President to take cognizance in his inaugural address of possible attempt to change government by violence.
Of course, plotting within armed forces against government is traditional in Argentina, and it would be surprising if none existed at present time. Whether plotting is substantial enough to threaten stability of regime or whether its worst effect will be to keep public opinion upset and lessen confidence in government which government sorely needs, Embassy cannot tell.
[Page 564]Embassy is not aware of any important plot to overthrow government and considers present economic and political situation in Argentina, including state of public opinion (and this despite austerity program), does not justify any belief by substantial number military elements that they could successfully or profitably replace regime by use of force.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 735.00/5–559. Secret.↩