Foreign Relations of the United States, 1961–1963, American Republics; Cuba 1961–1962; Cuban Missile Crisis and Aftermath, Volumes X/XI/XII, Microfiche Supplement

94. Telegram 211 to Quito, undated¹

undated

RPT: POLAD CINCARIB (NIACT). Amembassy, LIMA for Bernbaum (NIACT). Ref. EMTEL 176 and USARMA CX16.

1. We actively exploring possibility provide documentation to justify GOE break relations with Cuba.

2. Our records indicate that US-GOE internal security program carried out in 1959 and 1960 in preparation for (then scheduled) Quito conference amounted to about $1.5 million. That program, divided between military and police in approximate ratio 65–35, provided training and substantial supplies tear gas, gas masks, transportation and communications equipment, etc., such as requested in REFTEL CX16. Further we understand USOM director has on hand 1200 38 calibre pistols and other police equipment intended for border patrol which could be diverted to police in present situation. We estimate stocks on hand adequate for any immediate emergency which military and police are determined to meet.

3. We strongly appreciate, however, advisability demonstrate to Velasco U.S. ability give him prompt support in this first instance in which he has turned to us for such emergency help. We therefore are prepared send immediately token air shipment tear gas, gas masks and smoke grenades. (We do not repeat not believe in U.S. interest supply vomiting gas. Weapons carriers not feasible short notice.)

4. Plane can depart a.m. October 8. We suggest you make plans within country team for expeditious and discreet handling.

5. We note both REFTELS cite only military officers as direct source GOE requests for assistance. We believe it would be highly advisable Embassy obtain and transmit confirmation by President or Foreign Minister (preferably President) before we make shipment.

6. We have White House advance assurance Presidential determination up to $500 thousand subject future documentation.

7. We holding plane departure pending receipt your NIACT reply indicating a) whether above proposed action meets your current needs, b) confirmation desired paragraph 5, or your opinion thereof.

Rusk

1. DOS response to request from Ecuadorean military officers for equipment to assist in maintaining internal security. Secret. 2 pp. Kennedy Library, National Security Files, Countries Series, Ecuador.