718.00/7–1254: Telegram

The Acting Secretary of State to the Embassy in Costa Rica 1

confidential
priority

18. Oreamuno’s suggestion Ambassador act as intermediary between him and Figueres Embtel 222 appears inappropriate since conversations he proposes would concern purely internal Costa Rican matters such as appointment Colonel Ventura as Vice Minister Public Security. This appointment probably now intended secure for anti-Figueristas control Guardia Civil and expected arms delivery and could hardly justify our interest as necessary to assure free elections in 1958 four years hence. Department’s reaction that later trip by Oreamuno and Ventura to patch up differences with neighboring countries would not be as effective as trip by known followers Figueres whom they consider source trouble.

Department’s efforts reduce tensions in order stabilize area and eliminate possibility armed movement against present legally elected Costa Rican Government Depcirtel 223 delineate our role in resolving present crisis. Oreamuno’s direct contact with Figueres should therefore be his own decision without Embassy involvement. Suggest your discretion you inform Figueres of indirect approach already made in order obviate any subsequent misconception.

Smith
  1. Drafted by Raymond G. Leddy; signed for the Acting Secretary by Assistant Secretary Holland.
  2. Not printed (718.00/7–1254).
  3. Dated July 9, 1954, p. 850.