STATUS OF COUP PLOTTING IN BOLIVIA

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: Library of Congress
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): LOC-HAK-16-1-71-4
• Release Decision: RIPLIM
• Original Classification: S
• Document Page Count: 1
• Document Creation Date: January 11, 2017
• Document Release Date: October 27, 2011
• Sequence Number: 71
• Publication Date: August 19, 1971
• Content Type: MEMO

No Objection to Declassification in Part 2011/10/27: LOC-HAK-16-1-71-4
V ? 31742
MEMORANDUM
NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
SECRE ,teaEWORm
INFORMATION
August 19, 1971
MEMORANDUM FOR: DR. KISSINGER
FROM: ARNOLD NACHMANOFF
SUBJECT: Status of Coup Plotting in Bolivia
Embassy, Defense Attache.? and intelligence sources reported that an
attempt by military and civilian plotters to oust President Torres would
begin early Thursday morning. The Embassy also reported that the
Torres Government moved late Wednesday to counter the threat and
had arrested at least four military officers for engaging in "subversive
discussions". The Embassy noted that if a coup attempt should occur
at this time, it is unclear which side would emerge victorious. It is
also unclear whether the plotters actually have all the military support
which they claim, particularly in the key military regiments in La Paz.
Our Defense Attache believes there is danger that fighting within the
military could break out in the face of a coup attempt; and the Embassy
believes that, unless the plotters can successfully take over La Paz
within the first couple of days, Torres would have time to rally worker
and student support and that the situation could deteriorate into serious
civil strife and bloodshed. Should an attempted coup be unsuccessful,
the strength and influence of moderate elements in and out of the mili-
tary probably would be seriously weakened and the Torres regime
probably would be solidified in power.
As of 7:30 a.m., all was reported quiet in La Paz.
It is not yet clear whether the Government will effect a major roundup
of plotters at this time.
No Objection to Declassification in Part 2011/10/27: LOC-HAK-16-1-71-4