548. Telegram Polto 577 from Paris, November 201
For Tyler from Finletter. Policy. Ref: Topol 659.
Ball presentation created excellent effect. He divided subject into two main parts. First was historical, going over ground which Acheson had presented October 22 and carrying it through changes of events [Typeset Page 1482] since that time, including agreement to withdraw missiles and steps actually taken to accomplish withdrawal, and giving figures of missiles withdrawn and our estimate as to effect this withdrawal. He also dealt with IL–28s, MIGs, and fishing port. Second part of presentation dealt with US position that was necessary for future in which high points were determination that all offensive weapons should be removed; that Cuba is not to be Russian base; and that whatever steps necessary to accomplish foregoing would be taken. Mention was specifically made of possibility increased quarantine measures.
Ball presentation did not deal with matters relating to general east-west confrontation. It dealt strictly with Cuba. After briefing during question period photographs were presented by Navy commander from EUCOM and explanations were made by him with supplementary comments by Ball.
[Facsimile Page 2]Way is therefore open to you to: First, bring to NAC any new pictures and news as to situation in US and any attitudes on Cuba which will have developed since Ball presentation; and secondly, to take up questions of broad confrontation of east-west. It may be of course that between now and your presentation Cuban events may have become so important you may want to concentrate on them in your presentation. But failing such events, Alliance would be very much interested in knowing your views on future of east-west confrontation and whether or not Cuba and Sino-Indian conflict have created new atmospheres affecting east-west relations; and if so, what our appraisal is of possibilities constructive action.
Some of Alliance believe that Cuban affair and Sino-Indian conflict have created opportunity for new thinking and even possibility some amelioration relations between east-west. We here inclined not overdo this ray of sunshine, but at same time we do not think it would be desirable to reject possibility that conditions may have changed, possibly for better, as result of these two major happenings. Our judgment is that full presentation by you of moves we might consider taking in view of these two events would be helpful and welcome.
In order to counteract some of wishful thinking some members, would be very worthwhile if you could give special emphasis to fact (A) Soviet backdown Cuba due large extent solidarity of our allies, (B) need therefore to solidify interdependence within NATO, and (C) special need to step up efforts build defenses which must be ready and solid if we hope make any gains in getting Soviets to be more reasonable on major issues.
Ball presentation was at special “tea party” arranged along lines proposed by Secretary in 1961. There were present only PermReps, Colonna, one interpreter, and one engineer. PermReps agreed [Facsimile Page 3] that all reports would be transmitted to their governments only by hand of [Typeset Page 1483] an official diplomatic or military courier and not through ordinary post or via electrical means or by cipher however reliable. Do you want same set-up? Suggest your answer should be held until last minute in order you decide how highly classified your views will be. My preliminary judgement is that your presentation, even though it may not add especially highly classified Cuban facts, will bring up such important matters of east-west consultation that it should be given at one of these very restricted “tea parties.” However we can decide this at last moment, since it may depend on how many of your counterparts may attend.
- Report on Ball presentation on Cuba situation to the NAC. Top Secret. 3 pp. DOS, CF, 737.00/11–2062.↩