298. Telegram 21493 to McCone, September 131
Opim Dir Cite [less than 1 line not declassified]. Eyes Only [less than 1 line not declassified] from [less than 1 line not declassified]. Ref Dir 35650 (Out 75733).
1. I believe securing prisoner release a serious obligation of United States, important from a humanitarian standpoint and an essential step in our ultimate objectives for Cuba. Therefore perfectly agreeable to alter my plans to assist with congressional leadership and committee chairmen. Do not believe my identification as Republican particularly important but recognize a bi-partisan approach by the Executive Branch of the government on this delicate matter important, as are my personal connections on the Hill.
2. Do not understand apparent readiness to approve medicine and drugs to the extent indicated but no food, as I believe both have their humanitarian considerations and personally support both. Also I continue to be concerned that the establishment of defensive equipment and installations is merely a prelude to the location of an offensive weapon capability and once this is done the implementation of our policy as reported in the press might be extremely difficult and involve [Facsimile Page 2] unacceptable dangers.
- Release of exiled Cuban prisoners; humanitarian support for Cuba; installation of defensive equipment. Top Secret. 2 pp. CIA Files: Job 80–B1676R, Box 17, Mongoose, Cuban Reconnaissance/Overflights.↩