113. Memorandum From Secretary of State Muskie to President Carter1
1. Assistant Secretary Bowdler’s Visit to Argentina—I approved postponement of the trip today after reviewing the evidence of Argentine complicity in the Bolivian coup. The evidence is not conclusive, but it points to involvement by at least some elements of the Argentine military.2 Bill Bowdler’s visit had been designed to advance our dialogue with the Argentines on the issues of grain sales to the Soviets, nuclear non-proliferation and human rights progress.3 Given the need to object publicly and privately to the Argentines’ positions on Bolivia, the trip would at best serve no constructive purpose as far as these other issues are concerned. And, cancelling the trip is probably a more powerful statement than any Bill could have delivered in person.4
[Omitted here is material unrelated to Argentina.]
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Brzezinski Material, Subject File, Box 23, Evening Reports (State), 7/80. Secret.↩
- See Documents 156 and 157. In a July 28 action memorandum to Christopher, Bushnell noted that “we believe the senior leaders of the GOA (the President, the Junta, and senior members of the Army) were aware of Argentine involvement and that it was significant.” Noting that the GOA would soon recognize the new Bolivian regime, Bushnell continued, “Regardless of the timing of recognition, the key point is that the Argentines have exported their worst government terrorist techniques to Bolivia in support of a totally unwarranted military coup.” Christopher approved the postponement. (National Archives, RG 59, Central Foreign Policy File, P800111–2102)↩
- See Document 111.↩
- Carter wrote “ok” in the left-hand margin.↩