511. Telegram 1709 from USUN, November 91
Eyes Only for Secretary—Dept pass White House. Subject: Cuba.
Kuznetsov called on Stevenson at own request 1:30 PM today. Stated he had very urgent instructions from SOVGOV in connection very unpleasant events which had taken place with respect SOV ships sailing from Cuba to USSR. SOVGOV had received report from three SOV ships their masters had been asked by US destroyers to open holds, and threat of force had been made if those illegitimate demands were not complied with. Such action on part US vessels was in gross contradiction with US-USSR understanding that ships carrying missiles could be photographed from air and observed visually from US ships. Kuznetsov said ships involved were Aleksandrovsk, Divnogorsk, and Volgoles and gave their positions 1400 hours Moscow time as follows: Aleksandrovsk—25.20 N, 60.20 W; Divnogorsk—25.26 N, 60.19 W; Volgoles—32.14 N, 77.37 W. Stated Divnogorsk and Volgoles were ships carrying missiles and had already been visually observed by US vessels. As to Aleksandrovsk, it not [Facsimile Page 2] included in SOV list of ships subject to visual observation. USSR expected US vessels concerned would be instructed promptly not interfere with SOV ships in manner inconsistent with understanding reached. Kuznetsov emphasized interference had occurred outside quarantine zone, and requested speedy reply to his representation for transmission to SOVGOV.
Stevenson and McCloy said would report to government and opined there had been some misunderstanding. Promised reply today.
In response query, Kuznetsov said he had no info re Mikoyan’s return from Havana.
- Kuznetsov allegations that three Soviet ships sailing from Cuba to USSR were improperly searched by U.S. vessels. Secret. 2 pp. USUN Files: NYFRC 84–84–001, Outgoing Telegrams, 1953–1963.↩