280. Telegram From the Embassy in Costa Rica to the Department of State and the Embassy in Nicaragua1

3115. From Bowdler. Subj: Conversations With Robelo and Carazo on Tomorrow’s Scenario.

1. (S-Entire text)

2. I have spoken to Junta member Robelo about the need to move with care in developing the scenario for tomorrow and avoiding pressing positions as set forth in San Jose 3103 that could upset attainment of the first major phase of Somoza’s departure.2 I specifically suggested that they allow the first stage of the process to play out and then have their representatives in Managua meet with Urcuyo’s to work out modalities on security and ceremony. He immediately jumped to the conclusion that I was pressing for long delays in the transition process of which I had to disabuse him. In the end, however, he said he understood and would pass my advice along to Ramirez and Mrs. Chamorro.

3. I then sought President Carazo’s assistance in using his influence with the Junta to take a more deliberate and flexible approach as [Page 692] outlined in previous paragraph. He agreed to do this after questioning me at length to satisfy himself that some truck is not involved.

4. As I have reported in previous messages, our efforts here, even at this late stage, are surrounded by a profound suspicion that we may be engaging in delaying tactics designed to extend Somoza in power. The other obstacle we face is the posturing of the Junta either to pressure us into greater commitment to the Junta by false press statements about what I have said in the negotiations or by taking doctrinaire stands of not wanting to have anything to do with Somoza or his successors because it would compromise their revolutionary credentials. As we move closer to the decisive moment, the more insecure the Junta appears and the more inclined to magnify its suspicions and efforts at pressure.

Weissman
  1. Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Staff Material, North/South, Pastor Files, Country Files, Box 36, Nicaragua: 7/15–17/79. Secret; Flash; Nodis. Printed from a copy that was received in the White House Situation Room.
  2. See footnote 4, Document 278.