Office of the Historian

327. Telegram From the Consulate General in Nicosia to the Department of State0

Nicosia, July 25, 1959, 7 a.m.

32. Rome for Lister. Now seems apparent that Grivas-Makarios row which highlighted by Grebence article in Express-Washington Star1 was brought into open on purpose by Makarios. Reason for so doing was existence of differences and Archbishop’s conviction that it best have it out now rather than later. Makarios evidently believed he could establish his political supremacy on local scene in preparation for time when important and controversial decisions (bases, municipalities, etc.) would have to be announced. This belief supported by following facts: Foot given text by Grebence just after seeing me (Consulate telegram 2).2 He raised same points I did with same answer from Makarios, observing that it contained political dynamite. Makarios said confidentially he aware of content and was prepared let it be published as written.

In continuation of trend as reported Consulate telegram 24th3 there seems little doubt that Archbishop has accomplished his purpose and his position is more firmly established with increased support from [Page 790] Ministers, EDMA and business circles. In marked change since writing my G–97, June 24,4 Georgadjis and Papadopoulos now supporting Archbishop strongly. Makarios has also gained support among usually hyper-critical business community for sensible sterling area decision. Even those among EDMA Central Committee who were critical of Archbishop a month ago have apparently closed ranks behind him—not because of turning away from Grivas but from realization there is no other possible leader and further dissension in ranks would only help the Communists.

[2 paragraphs (17–1/2 lines of source text) not declassified]

Belcher
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/7–2559. Secret. Repeated to London, Ankara, Athens, Paris for USRO, and Rome.↩
  2. See footnote 3, Document 326.↩
  3. Telegram 2 from Nicosia, July 1, transmitted the substance of Makarios’ interview with Grebence and an assessment by Belcher that Makarios’ comments about Grivas could be embarrassing to the Archbishop. (Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/7–159)↩
  4. Not further identified.↩
  5. Airgram G–97 from Athens, June 24, reported on growing divisions in the Greek Cypriot right-wing political movement. (Department of State, Central Files, 747C.00/6–2459)↩