483. Memorandum of telephone conversation between Ball and McCloy, November 31
McCloy told Ball Gilpatric thought the readings on the IL–28s were disturbing, and Ball told him he had already spoken to Gilpatric on this subject.
McCloy said he thought they would get word over to Kuznetsov this morning telling him that this is the result of our surveys and that we are very much concerned about the activity and say we hope they are part of the offensive weapons and that he will get his attention drawn to those right away. Ball agreed we might tie it explicitly back to the proclamation list. The letter did not refer to the proclamation but simply said these were the things we consider. It might be useful in in talking to Mikoyan to say this is what they have always had as the offensive weapons. McCloy thought it was time to put something in writing rather than in talk and Ball agreed.
McCloy asked that State work up something. McCloy has some question as to whether he should be getting in touch with him today in accordance with the instructions in #1159 until more is gotten out of Cuba and we can be a little bit more definitive before tomorrow’s session. Ball replied he would be inclined to do that. Just let him know about the IL–28s this morning and the other stuff could wait until tomorrow. McCloy said that was what he was inclined to do; he would rather tie it all up after he hears from Ball. Ball told him they were meeting at 10 this morning to go over the things that might be put up to him then. McCloy said in the meantime they will plan to get this stuff over to him about the 28s.
- Status of IL–28s in Cuba; notification to Soviets of unacceptable IL–28 activity in Cuba. No classification marking. 1 p. DOS, Ball Papers: Lot 74 D 272, Telcons—Cuba.↩