Office of the Historian

25. Telegram From the Embassy in Uruguay to the Department of State1

Montevideo, August 11, 1961, 1 a.m.

148. From Dillon. It would be very helpful here if at appropriate moment near end of conference we could announce that supposedly secret document read by Guevara had previously been furnished to and discussed with Venezuelan Government. Such a revaluation would be of major help in discrediting Guevara. Recognize problem posed by difference in two versions. If Department and Ambassador agree, suggest Ambassador discuss matter frankly with Betancourt to see whether anything along these lines would be practical. Would need decision promptly so as to be in position to act by Monday.2

Sparks
  1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 371.8/8-1161. Confidential. Repeated to Caracas.↩
  2. August 14.↩