[Here follows discussion of matters unrelated to Cuba.]

3. Situation in Cuba

Mr. Rubottom said that the Cuban situation was moving rapidly and that Batista's position was deteriorating. He said that the main problem now seemed to be how to secure as orderly a transfer of power as possible with a minimum of bloodshed and a minimum of economic disruption. He thought that it was highly conceivable that Batista would not last until February 24 when his successor is due to take over. He said it was not clear whether a rebel provisional government had already been formed or whether, if formed, it had been recognized by some Latin American countries. He said that Ambassador Dreier was trying to arouse interest in the situation among Members of the OAS on humanitarian grounds. The Acting Secretary asked if it were true that Batista was weak because the U.S. had denied him arms as he (Batista) had said. Mr. Rubottom said that this was not the basic reason for Batista's weakness. The Acting Secretary asked that a white paper be prepared on the Cuban situation to cover inter alia this point.

Action: ARA

NOTES:

1. Source: Department of State, Secretary's Staff Meetings: Lot 63 D 75, December 1958. Secret. Prepared by Thomas McElhiney. An attendance list for the meeting, which was chaired by Herter, is attached to the source text.