Foreign Relations of the United States, 1952–1954, Guatemala

124. Telegram From the Central Intelligence Agency to the CIA Station in [place not declassified]¹

Washington, April 10, 1954, 1637Z.

46015. Re: DIR 45998.² For SKILLET from Whiting.

1. High level meeting referred to in ref scheduled for this afternoon following which SKILLET will receive further guidance.³ However in meanwhile Whiting requested by Starke convey to SKILLET following personal message.

“SKILLET should not have any further direct contact with local authorities or other non ODYOKE individuals with regard to any aspect of Success except pursuant to and within limits of specific instructions and authorization from HQs ODACID and KUBARK. Starke very concerned with regard present extent official exposure and considers that this raises serious question desirability continuing operation as previously planned.”

2. In light of the foregoing and without in any way purporting to prejudge outcome of basic policy decision re continuation and timing success Whiting suggests SKILLET may wish consider and offer recommendations concerning best means softening impact local authorities SKILLET’s withdrawal from direct contact. Realize possibility they may interpret such breakoff as evidence complete reversal ODYOKE position regarding all aspects this matter. Also on assumption policy decision may favor continuation project in something like present form recommendations SKILLET and Princep for re-establishment indirect channels communication will be needed for consideration here.

1. Source: Central Intelligence Agency, Job 79-01025A, Box 8, Folder 9. Secret; Priority. Drafted by Wisner. Repeated to PBSUCCESS Headquarters in Florida.
2. Document 123.
3. On April 10 Wisner briefed Assistant Secretary Holland on PBSUCCESS and Holland, shocked by security lapses, demanded a top-level review of the project. (Cullather, Operation PBSUCCESS p. 101) See Document 127 for CIA’s response.