NSC BRIEFING (401ST), THURSDAY, 23 APRIL 1959 WITH ATTACHED DOCUMENT TITLED "NS

Created: 4/23/1959

OCR scan of the original document, errors are possible

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NSC Bill WING

9

Castro continues his one-man rule; no Indications he intends relinquish control over any government policies and actions, A. Agrarian reform program and measures to reduce rents and

utility rates alienating business groups but no sign yet of

organlzod opposition; Castro retains overwhelming popularity

among lower classes.

II. Such nationalistic and anti-American statements as the US "sent

Batista tanks and airplaneseso apiece to fight against the people" not repeated during visit here; but thero are at least two Communists in his entourage.

A. Onpril Raul Castro in an attack on "enemies of Cuban

revolution" savagely attacked the US, ex-President Flgueras of Costa Rica, the international press,eader of Cuban-American cultural institute. Raul said speech nott "carefully considered."

astro's attitudes and policies probably undergoing roodificatic as revolutionary fervor subsides and as he gains political experience, but basic programs and beliefs will probably remain unchanged.

C. Convinced that US influence in Cuba has retarded*social,

economic and political development; apparent that he distrusts US and while seeking economic benefits at the same time trying to loosen strong economic and political ties. HI. Communists, operating openly, have gained footholds in organized

labor, armed forces, and press.

A. Highly publicized pro-Communists "Che" Guevara and Raul CaStrc hold top positions of command in the military; pro-Communist Carlos Franqui edits self-styled "official" newspaper and is press advisor to President Urrutia. IV. Hay open for further Communist penetration; Castro has made no serious attempt to proscribe Communist activities.

programs in the schools for educatingrural masses reported to bo stronglybelieved participating in committee tobooks; Marxist teaching included in military

church, however, is alarmed nod planning measures,

including formationatholic political party, to combat

Communism. Church irritated that last rites not pormittod

to some who have been executed.

V. Castro's campaign against dictatorships has undergone modification. A. osition of open and aggressive support for anti-

dictator movements, he claims to have movedore cautious one of moral support and has taken token steps to prevent the launching of invasion expeditions from Cuba.

There has been no action, however, against Communist-infiltrated groups generally associated withf"Che" Guevara and Raul Castro.

Support for Communist-infi1trated Nicarafiuan and Dominican exiles also continues; exile groups still operate freely in Cuba.

Original document.

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