874.00/7–845: Telegram
The United States Representative in Bulgaria (Barnes) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:33 p.m.]
347. Last night the three Regents expressed to me the view that Petkov (nr. 345, July 7) has taken only patriotic course left to him as result of Communist and Obbov maneuvers to gain control of Agrarian Party. They anticipate immediate reaction by Communists and their Agrarian stooge Obbov that will precipitate deep governmental crisis involving perhaps even change in members Regency Council and most certainly widespread arrests of Agrarians. It has been suggested to me from numerous quarters I should be on alert for some sort of militia coup against Dimitrov. Dimitrov himself fears Communists and Russians may seize upon present situation to stage fake counter revolutionary coup, thus preparing way for Russian military to take over police authority and place Communists in full charge of Govt.
First move by Obbov was taken this morning in radio announcement of decision by his so-called executive committee of Agrarian Party “to withdraw its confidence from Petkov as member of Cabinet [Page 266] and as its rep on FF Natl Committee.” Next development will probably be arrest of Petkov.
Rptd to Moscow as 188.