837.00/4626: Telegram
The Personal Representative of the President (Caffery) to the Acting Secretary of State
Habana, January 17, 1934—2
p.m.
[Received 3:05 p.m.]
[Received 3:05 p.m.]
36. Batista has just sent me word that in view of the very precarious strike situation (seriously endangering enormous American properties) provoked by Guiteras and also in view of Hevia’s inability to secure the full support of Mendieta group he has decided to declare Mendieta President this afternoon. He may meet with armed resistance from the Cuban Navy.
I do not know that this decision is final but he says now that he has decided.
Caffery