740.0011 European War 1939/32084; Telegram

The Ambassador in Colombia (Lane) to the Secretary of State

2162. Although members of the Government express cordial enthusiasm regarding Colombia’s new international position and the liberal press emphasizes the importance of the Government’s decision there is virtual public apathy regarding latest developments. There are no flags flying nor are there any public demonstrations. Having witnessed popular enthusiasm following anti-Nazi action on part of the Yugoslav and Costa Rican Governments it is to me almost unbelievable that life in Bogotá can continue without any interruption whatever on the occasion of the Colombian Government having taken such a momentous decision. The Consul at Cali reports “a surprising [Page 7] lack of interest on the part of the local populace regarding Colombia’s belligerency.”

Lane