714.00/6–2854:Telegram
The Ambassador in Guatemala (Peurifoy) to the Department of State
niact
[Received June 29—5:15 a.m.]
1137. Pass Defense. In accordance with prior arrangements (Embassy’s telegram 1136, June 28),1 I met 5 p.m. with Colonels Diaz, Sanchez and Monzon to receive their answer as to whether they would be prepared to initiate conversations with Colonel Carlos Castillo Armas, leader of rebel forces.
Diaz first inquired whether if they agreed to conversations I thought a cease-fire could be arranged while negotiations were in progress. I replied that while I could not speak for Castillo Armas, I would be pleased to suggest that a cease-fire be worked out. Diaz then stated that he and his colleagues felt it desirable to have a neutral person present during conversations so that what was agreed upon could be witnessed. He said he had already spoken to the Papal Nuncio who had expressed his willingness to collaborate. I said I would convey this message with my favorable recommendation.
In those circumstances, said Colonel Diaz, Junta would be prepared open talks with Castillo Armas. I promised to convey this message immediately to Department and request that it be speedily conveyed, if possible, to Castillo Armas. Junta thought talks should be held in Nunciature in Guatemala City. It was suggested that Colonel Martin talk with Chief of Staff Parrinello about the landing pattern to be followed by plane bearing Castillo Armas should talks be agreed upon, and that Colonel McCormick also confer with Parrinello to work out details of cease-fire. In this connection, Colonel Diaz estimated that it would take twelve hours from the time he received messages confirming possible agreement until word regarding cease-fire could be circulated [Page 1195] to troops in field. Junta members made several efforts obtain advance agreement to an end to air attacks, but I insisted cease-fire must be effective on all branches at once.
Papal Nuncio2 informed Embassy today over 90 percent of people favored Castillo Armas. I intend to see Nuncio tomorrow and confirm his role in conversations as well as have generally frank talk concerning situation.
I request Department convey through appropriate channels to Castillo Armas the offer of Junta to confer with him. In interest of stopping bloodshed, I strongly recommend he be urged to accept.