831.01/10–2445: Telegram

The Ambassador in Venezuela (Corrigan) to the Secretary of State

981. Following submitted in reply to questions raised in Deptel 687, October 23, 4 p.m.:

1.
Yes.
2.
Without active opposition at present. Potential opposition if organized could be powerful. Key to this may be treatment accorded to Lopez Contreras who is still held a prisoner.
3.
Designated Foreign Minister15 has so stated in press interview.

Biographic analyses will follow shortly.

Policy of watchful waiting and consultation with other American Govts rather than immediate action seems indicated.

There is no reason to believe that our interests are adversely affected by change in Govt. Leaders of American industry are making their own informal contacts and emergency arrangements with Junta.

Corrigan
  1. Carlos Morales.