414.608/5–2254: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in El Salvador 1
priority
117. There are still unconfirmed reports that at least two additional European flagships now enroute or to depart shortly for Guatemala with additional armaments originating behind Iron Curtain. We feel it imperative these shipments be prevented from reaching Guatemala. Would prefer that any US action be taken pursuant request of governments most affected by such shipments. Ascertain whether government to which you are accredited willing request us to endeavor to locate and detain these ships outside Guatemalan territorial waters. In view importance and urgency such action suggest you may desire promptly consult with President.2
- Drafted and signed by Mr. Leddy; cleared with the Secretary. Sent also to Managua, San José, Panama, and Tegucigalpa; repeated for information to Guatemala City.↩
- In telegram 1592 to Mexico City, dated May 26, 1954, Secretary Dulles stated in part that El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua had made “clearcut” requests for U.S. cooperation to prevent further arms from reaching Guatemala, and that Costa Rica and Panama were considering making similar requests (414.608/5–2654).↩