-
Alexander Fomin: So I understand you correctly, if the missiles in Cuba were dismantled - returned to the Soviet Union - and a guarantee was made not to reintroduce them, the United States would be prepared to guarantee that it would never invade Cuba.
John Scali: That is correct.
Alexander Fomin: And this is from the highest authority?
John Scali: Yes - *the* highest authority. There are two conditions. The UN must be allowed to inspect the removal of the missiles.
Alexander Fomin: Of course, the UN must also be allowed to observe the redeployment of forces from the American Southeast.
John Scali: I can't speak to that.
[Fomin smirks]
Alexander Fomin: What's the second condition, John?
John Scali: Time is of the essence.
Alexander Fomin: How much time?
John Scali: Forty-eight hours. In forty-eight hours, there can be no deals.
-
Kenny O'Donnell: [reading Khruschev's message] It's ten pages of sentimental fluff, but he's saying it right here - he'll remove the missiles in return for a no-invasion pledge.
John McCone, CIA Director: Mr. President, our early analysis says this probably was written by Khruschev himself. It's a first draft; it shows no signs of being polished by the foreign ministry. In fact, it probably wasn't even approved by the Politburo, as they wouldn't the emotionalism go by. The analysts say it was written by someone under considerable stress.
[all chuckle]
President Kennedy: Glad to know we're not alone.
Extended Reading
