442. Telegram From the Mission to the United Nations to the Department of State1
2862. Re: Cyprus. Dept rpt fol as desired:
Rolz-Bennett (UN Secretariat) told us today SYG very concerned about deterioration in Cyprus, expects return within matter of hours [Page 951] from African trip if needed in NY. Rolz said Secretariat continuing with its contingency planning for possible expansion observer or peacekeeping force. He remarked, however, that under circumstances it would probably be necessary get SC approval send even expanded observer force to Cyprus. Stated flatly nothing could be done in Cyprus without new SC meeting, adding that GOC has made it very clear it expects call SC if London conference breaks down. Comment: Rolz seemed be hinting that some kind of pledge had been made to Sovs re holding of formal SC meeting before UN takes any further steps in Cyprus.
Re possible UN peacekeeping force, Rolz said he had impression Makarios probably no longer inclined request SC establish such a force in first instance, but would confine self to request for UN blessing for abrogation of Zurich agreements. However, what Cypriots really want is UN guarantee for Cyprus’ territorial integrity, and once this agreed to GOC likely to acquiesce in dispatch of UN peacekeeping force. Rolz said under circumstances Sovs likely approve if, once GOC’s approval and statement on territorial integrity having been secured, acceptable financial arrangements could be made.
Rolz asked about reports that UK has requested US make American peacekeeping contingent available. Relying on Deptel 1975 (USUN 9996)2 we confirmed British had made request and matter under discussion, although US not enthusiastic about participation. Rolz thought it would be hard get SC approval for allied force although if Makarios agreed to our plan this not impossible. Asked if presence of Gyani would be affected by dispatch of allied force, Rolz said he thought “question would become very sticky.” He added, however, he had strong doubts about value of even expanded observer force if communal disorders broke out. While Gyani’s presence had had calming effect in first 48 hours latter was in Cyprus, more recently it seemed to have had little impact. Emphasizing again that it would take SC decision send even expanded observer force to island, Rolz repeated he personally doubted presence of additional “25 or so” observers would help keep peace.