November 5, 1962

This page includes diplomatic cables from November 5th, 1962. Soviet-Cuban relations and Canadian responses to the crisis are the main themes. The resolution of the crisis, crucially defined by the removal of Soviet missiles from Cuba, is covered below, too. 

Soviet Perspectives Post-Crisis 

The High Commissioner of Canada in London is shown the text of two telegrams written by the British Ambassador in Moscow, and the text was copied to Ottawa (CDNW12602). The Soviet Union had publicly supported Castro’s five conditions, but the British assessed this was likely only to quell Cuban anger towards the USSR. He also reported on new Soviet attitudes toward the UN, as Soviet commentators called the organization an “important instrument of peace.” The previous view had criticized the UN as a “branch of the State Department."

Verifying Disarmament in Cuba 

Reporting from Cuba, Canadian Ambassador George Kidd relayed evidence of the disarmament and removal of Soviet offensive weapons (CDNW12603). Kidd described convoys of trucks loading onto Soviet ships, and military transport carrying large trailers of tarpaulin-covered equipment. 

Harry Truman on Canada’s Response to the Crisis 

In a press conference, former President Harry Truman criticized Canada’s initial reaction to the crisis. A telegram was consequently sent to Truman containing a statement made by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons on October 25. Truman replied to this note in good spirits stating, “I am happy that complete understanding between your great country and ours is accomplished” (CDNW12440).