Dear
Comrade Khrushchev:
Given the
analysis of the situation and the reports which have reached us, [I]
consider an attack to be almost imminent--within the next 24 to 72
hours. There are two possible variants: the first and most probable
one is an air attack against certain objectives with the limited aim
of destroying them; the second, and though less probable, still
possible, is a full invasion. This would require a large force and is
the most repugnant form of aggression, which might restrain them.
You can be
sure that we will resist with determination, whatever the case. The
Cuban people's morale is extremely high and the people will confront
aggression heroically.
I would
like to briefly express my own personal opinion.
If the
second variant takes place and the imperialists invade Cuba with the
aim of occupying it, the dangers of their aggressive policy are so
great that after such an invasion the Soviet Union must never allow
circumstances in which the imperialists could carry out a nuclear
first strike against it.
I tell you
this because I believe that the imperialists' aggressiveness makes
them extremely dangerous, and that if they manage to carry out an
invasion of Cuba--a brutal act in violation of universal and moral
law--then that would be the moment to eliminate this danger forever,
in an act of the most legitimate self-defense. However harsh and
terrible the solution, there would be no other.
This
opinion is shaped by observing the development of their aggressive
policy. The imperialists, without regard for world opinion and against
laws and principles, have blockaded the seas, violated our air-space,
and are preparing to invade, while at the same time blocking any
possibility of negotiation, even though they understand the gravity of
the problem.
You have
been, and are, a tireless defender of peace, and I understand that
these moments, when the results of your superhuman efforts are so
seriously threatened, must be bitter for you. We will maintain our
hopes for saving the peace until the last moment, and we are ready to
contribute to this in any way we can. But, at the same time, we are
serene and ready to confront a situation which we see as very real and
imminent.
I convey
to you the infinite gratitude and recognition of the Cuban people to
the Soviet people, who have been so generous and fraternal, along with
our profound gratitude and admiration to you personally. We wish you
success with the enormous task and great responsibilities which are in
your hands.
Fraternally,
Fidel
Castro
