Foreign Relations of the United States, 1964–1968, Volume XXXII, Dominican Republic; Cuba; Haiti; Guyana

219. Telegram From the Embassy in the Dominican Republic to the Department of State¹

Santo Domingo, October 19, 1968, 1840Z.

4014. Depart pass to White House. Subj: Political Situation—Deflation of Coup Rumors in DomRep. Ref: SD–4001.²

1. As reported reftel, Pres Balaguerʼs radio-TV address to nation last night came against backdrop of some political uneasiness and mounting wave rumors of possible military coups, etc. (FYI. During afternoon Amb spoke personally with Pres³ so as to dispel any doubts he might harbor as to continued USG sympathy and support for GODR. He found Pres seemingly calm, confident and whimsically relaxed about “rumor factory” which he said was currently enjoying “abundant output.”)

2. Toward end of radio-TV address which was largely devoted economic subjects, Pres turned to what he termed “alarmist rumors and sensational stories” of last few days. He advised listeners to close ears to these rumors which were only designed generate uneasiness and unrest. With considerable fervor Pres stated political situation “is of absolute stability” and said were any real problem to appear GODR would be first to denounce same before national public opinion. Pres said sarcastically that if stability of nation were to depend upon such false and baseless rumors then would be better once and for all convert country into cattle pasture.

3. Country team perceives no solid basis for affording credence to rumors of impending military coup here. SecState for Armed Forces has privately deplored action of military in Peru and Panama. Army C/S Brig Gen Perez Guillen has publicly ridiculed idea of DomRep Armed Forces move against govt as reported SD–4001 para 3–A. Air Force C/S Brig Gen Lluberes Montas was quoted publicly as denying any pertinence here of Peru and Panama coups and privately in long conversation on night Oct 18 he assured DCM with considerable fervor that no atmosphere exists for military coup and that he would be first to defend Balaguer govt against any such move by Wessin y Wessin or others. Also pertinent, we believe, that recent [less than 1 line of source text not declassified] contact with some long-established and reliable observers local scene reveal latter to be unimpressed by current crop coup rumors.

4. On balance, and taking into account report we have received from Consulate Santiago of calm situation there, recommend depart recognize some sensational press treatment this subject unavoidable but that as of now objective basis for accepting or becoming alarmed by current rumors is difficult to perceive.

Crimmins

1. Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1967–69, POL 2 DOM
2. Dated October 18. (Ibid.)
3. Not further identified.