Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, American Republics; Cuba 1961–1962; Cuban Missile Crisis and Aftermath, Volumes X/XI/XII, Microfiche Supplement

139. Telegram 123 to Guatemala City, September 24¹

September 24, 1963

We are increasingly concerned over failure of Peralta regime to organize any effective attack on the main economic and political problems facing it, and over its refusal to accept badly needed help and advice.

We fully endorse your intention (as set forth in para 1, page 3, A–147) assiduously to cultivate relationships leading to greater US influence with Peralta regime and to greater receptivity to help which is available from us for the asking. This in fact should be your central purpose during the coming months. We recognize that it is one which requires slow and careful action, and which must be based on elements of mutual respect, correctness and dignity, and best accomplished through little steps forward without appearance of pressure or preaching.

Since Peralta is in less secure political position now than in early days his regime, and the gross inadequacy of his government’s own unaided efforts presumably more apparent, you may find opportunities to begin applying useful leverage, not only on operational matters of mutual concern, but on some of the more fundamental questions. For example, possibly using your relationship with Peralta’s brother or other influential individuals, you should look for, and take advantage of, any opening to draw the Peralta regime toward the realization that its repression of political activity only drives it underground, inviting violent subversion, and that regime should consider trying to bring politics out into the open and into constructive channels.

We note that you have in fact already started to work toward objectives outlined above, but wish to emphasize importance of continuing effort.

Request your comments on foregoing, including identity of some of the people which you and other members CT believe you can most usefully cultivate for purposes stated. If you concur, we will try to use Garcia Bauer to similar end. We have found him to be reasonably friendly, cooperative, and, in contrast to his predecessor Alejos, intelligent.

Ball

1. Concern over failure of Peralta regime to begin to solve the main economic and political problems facing Guatemala. Secret. 2 pp. DOS, CF, POL GUAT–US.