837.00/4453: Telegram

The Chargé in Cuba (Reed) to the Acting Secretary of State

483. Killing of five ex-Army officers has aroused widespread indignation. All five had been accused of responsibility for execution [Page 527] of three Alvarez brothers in the summer of 1932. Batista has promised thorough investigation and punishment of guilty persons if found.

Conciliation negotiations have received a setback due to reported declaration of General Menocal that he would accept no solution involving continuance of Grau as Provisional President and divergent tendencies in ranks of A.B.C.

Reed