194. Telegram From the Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Argentina 1

275. Department foresees Lonardi 2 will be subjected pressures from Radicals, Communists and other domestic sectors seeking start new government on course of animosity or distrust toward US. Important Lonardi appreciate soonest strong desire US Government and people cordial relations with Argentina and willingness cooperate closely and constructively in economic, military, political and other fields. His awareness this may cause new government withstand these anti-US pressures which are sure to materialize.

Lonardi should be encouraged make public statement soonest government’s determination fulfill international obligations, determination combat international communism and disposition seek cordial relations with US and other American republics. Embassy should comment soonest .… Possibly simultaneous approaches in Argentina and through Ambassador Paz or Admiral Ibarborde 3 (whose contact Department has been reported) in Washington would be constructive. Reply soonest.

Hoover
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 611.35/9–2155. Secret. Drafted and approved by Holland.
  2. Major General Eduardo A. Lonardi, a member of the ruling military junta, was named Provisional President of Argentina on September 22.
  3. Jorge Pedro Ibarborde, Argentine delegate to the Inter-American Defense Board.