Foreign Relations of the United States, 1958–1960, Volume V, Microfiche Supplement, American Republics

GT–40. Telegram from the Ambassador in Guatemala (Muccio) to the Department of State¹

Guatemala City, November 14, 1960, 7 p.m.

226. Pass Army and Air Force. Embassy Telegram 225.² Prolongation revolt and failure so far successful government action quell it causes Embassy concern. Government vociferously castigating Fidel Castro as responsible this uprising and claiming invasion to back it up imminent. Yet (1) it has failed land troops at Barrios to retake base and Embassy is unaware any engagement, successful or otherwise, by Mariscal Zavala troops at Zacana, and (2) all indications are that dissident army elements jumped ahead on their own and extremist political elements are only now attempting to join forces. Capital remarkably tranquil and if movement were Communist-Castro inspired and instigated, it is logical to assume there would be coordinated agitation by leftist labor, student, etc., groups. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister today instructed GOG representatives Washington invoke protection Rio treaty, charging revolt Castro-inspired and to be supported by troop and arms movements from Cuba.

This kind of situation of course ideal for exploitation by extremists both right and left. Embassy fears that with substantial proportion troops out of city and general uncertainty and lack of confidence resulting from prolongation revolt. Communist and leftist opposition elements will soon try agitation of various kinds including strikes and demonstrations. In such a situation rightist elements might be impelled themselves strike first prevent leftist takeover.

Favorable financial news conveyed Ydígoras and Cabinet in Barall’s and my conversation with him this morning no doubt substantially encouraged GOG.³ Ydígoras exudes confidence but recognizes he is atop murmuring volcano. Devoutly to be hoped he may be able transform his confidence to air force and army elements who will proceed with vigor to end revolt. There are, however, indications of dissension within air force and that military are loath to fight brother military. Also air force and military, because of GOG’s cries of wolf over past months, now refuse to believe, in spite GOG protestations and exhortations, that rebels are really Castro agents.

If recent reports are borne out rebels in Barrios and Zacapa handing out arms wholesale to civilians and there should develop other evidences leftist influence or exploitation movement, army and air force may close ranks. Next 24 hours should clarify situation and trend.

Muccio

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 714.00/11–1460. Confidential; Priority.
2. See Document GT–35.
3. Barall informed Ydígoras that $10 million in budget support was forthcoming and that the Rio Hondo loan application was receiving positive action. Barall and Johnston visited Guatemala, November 13–17, in connection with the Guatemalan request for $10 million in budget support. (Memorandum from Mann to Dillon, November 17, 1960; ARA/OAP Files, Lot 63 D 146, “Interdepartmental Memoranda: Guatemala, 1960”)