Havana, July 12, 1958 - 1 p.m.

58. For William Snow. If Consul Wollam is unable to obtain a definite date for release hostages, I believe the US will be required to take a firm position. If he is successful in obtaining a definite release date, I still believe firm stand on the part of US will be required.

There is no guarantee the kidnappers will abide by their agreement. There is no guarantee that rebels will discontinue kidnapping Americans. The present military order for seizing Americans has only been suspended.

It has been mentioned by some sources that the US would be required to remove all of its citizens from Oriente province. Oriente does not have a monopoly on kidnappings. This can be done anywhere. So far the kidnappers have accomplished their immediate objectives; (A) Gained publicity (B) Being able to deal directly with the US (C) Suspend air and military action on part of GOC.

In the US we have learned from experience that the only effective deterrent to kidnappings is to make the penalty sufficiently severe.

As to the overall foreign policy of the US, the Department knows best whether it is advisable to bring this matter to the OAS. From a purely local point of view the kidnappers would welcome such news. They could consider this as giving them additional prominence in the world spotlight.

Smith

NOTES:

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 737.00/7-1258. Confidential; Niact.