Volume I - Manuel Ray , = page 2 11410820 f. PRQ Part 2 Section I |met Ray October 1958 when Ray was head of Civic Resistence- Movement in Havana. prior to 4 = iL January 1959. anuary 5 given important post in revolutionary government and| has seen him only twice since, Section II of PRQ states Ray is friendly to U.S., once having received @ gopant for special study there. A dedicated, patriotic Cuban, opposed to Commmnism but taken no active part in combatting it. 8. An undated, unaddressed letter from Antonio Gonsales Mora, Jr. «= P.S. SaysJoaquin Sanjenis appears to be a person in whom CIA has great confidence. Linked to Artime conspiracy. Responsible for all “inter- Cuban" intelligence matters. Is a “shady character" -- gangster background -~- gives impression of mentél retardation. Not known as inlividual of any importance, but he is! "An inexplicable affair" 9. PRQ Part 2 (contd) Section VI -- Subject has definite political action potential, is a pro-democratic official of government who is not in sympathy with aims of international Commmism and who is interested in strengthening ties between Cuba and U. S. Probably would never consent to agent status y but could by persuasion and argument be encouraged to influence policies of his government along lines compatible with U.S. government policies. Section XIV -- Information in PRQ Parts I and II were obtained from file research and personal contact with subject. a
Review of Manuel Ray y Rivero Files, Volumes I - VIII March 25, 1978 SCC NWS Volume IT | 14410823 x October 1, 1960 - November 22, 1960 * . As of 21 November 1960, MRP organized as follows: Manuel Ray ~- Chief ‘Rayl. Chibas.-.Sepcial Assistant to Ray Juan Esteves Ramires <- Secretary Ramon Barquin ~ Military and Intelligence matters Cisneros - Chief of MRP in Cuba 1. 10/4/60 Cable laims that new Cuban resistance group organized under Ray has 500 men in Las Villas Province. Not part of FRD but in touch with it. % 2. 10/7/60 Cable from Havana. AURELIANO SANCHEZ ARANGO has withdrawn from FRD. JUSTO CARRILLO ani FELIPE PAZOS will be integrated into Ray's MRP. VARONA wishes to join, also, but Ray insists VARONA return to Cuba to do so. 36 10/12/60 Cable to Director. RAMON BARQUIN claims CARRILLO and ARANGO are going to boycott FRD Executive Committee and sabotage its works Barquin planning to join with Pazos, Ray, Chibas, MERO and QUEVEDO to form a new frente and then request union with FRD. If accepted, Barquin would become military head. If Barquin does not get U.S. government support for this plan, he will return to Cuba to try to overthrow Castro and win election on an anti-Yankee platform. Raa * 10/17/60 Contact report from Subject: Meeting with JUAN ESTEVEZ and JORGE BERUFF, 10/13/60 Cubans said Ray's group will not lower themselves to answer "“Fidelismo without Fidel" charge and let their actions speak for themselves. MRP is highly disciplined and feel the majority of Cuban people favor thir platform. Its leaders are interchangeable. If Ray comes out of Cuba, Chibas or Estevez could go in and take his place. 5. 10/24/60 Memo for files Subject: Representative of Manuel Ray to Professional Groups ENRIQUE HIRAM GUTIERREZ y RODRIGUEZ (dob 5/20/31, Havana) travels frequently to Puerto Rico on architectural business. Also frequently ee enters U. S. at Miami. Represents Ray's organization to various pro- fessional groups in Havana. Also serves as courier to Miami. 6. DRE information. 10/24/60 Cable states reported receiving ¢ letter from ANTONIO GARCIA, DRE representative in Cuba that organization g is going well but needs funds and material aid. MASH Esks Muelle ) get details of Garcia's "“groupos de acci n" and details of organization. { MASH(Bave Muller $500Jfor Garcia. [ Mallen}is concerned about Manolo Ray SECRET
eee ee eee TT e Pa) File review. Manuel R, ee a ot Volume ii of xviii v 44441)824- Page 2 . whom he says is gaining strength in Cuba. Says students eager to join active group and will go to Ray if DRE can't get help 500N. ’ Te provisional Operational Approval granted to Ray on 10/26/60. *& 8. aN 60 Cable to Director from Havana reports Ray held MRP meeting on 10/23 60 and made following statements: a. MAJOR WILLIAM MORGAN had been very helpful to MEP - responsible for obtaining most of their weapons. b. In four months, MRP will have 20,000 militants throughout Cuba. Organized now in all provinces except Pinar del Rio. Invasion could not take place for 4 months but FRD still in‘favor of earlier date. ; ce CARRILLO and ANGEL del CERRO have left FRD and now with MRP MRP urging Ray to escape Cuba, and they feel it is only a matter of time until he is picked up and executed. MRP manifesto will be released this weekend. 9. 10/28/60 Monthly payments 0 [#400 fsrprovea for Ray's wife in behalf of Bender group. #10. 10/28/60 Memo for Record a ; ‘Subject: Conversation of CARRILLO and Chief, MASH Economic philosophy: When FRD first formed it was a by RUBIO PADILLA as “Fidelismo without Fidel." Now FRD saying same thing about MRP. ee: 11/5/60 Cable to Director from MASH Verona tells HUNT that he received information that Ray wanted to leave Cuba and was to be exfiltrated clandestinely by Bender group. . rd 12. 11/8/60 Memo for Record [ohn D. Peters _ Subject: [Contact] report on meeting with ROGELIO GONZALES Gonzales considers Ray highly dangerous because of his ambition to play prominent role in Cuban government after overthrow of Castro. Thinks he poises threat to Varona's authority inside Cuba. Ray appears to have support of middle class, politicians and professtonals. Should Ray join “*».-. FRD, Gonzales thinks he will still operate on a unilateral basis while seeking to supercede FRD with MRP. 13. 11/11/60 Cable to Director from JMASH Ray arrived Tampa morning of 11/10/60. Mash officer staying with him until surfacing date which depends on safe arrival from Cuba of two other individuals. They are the last of the HUBER MATOS escapee group known by Ray to still be hiding in Cuba. . SECRET
spear = yeroin h nae eak an ss toate en ee ane ke een tte eet ehe as CT ed srcomaaterrttine ERED OF Oo > NT TES ° ee a SECRET Review Of Manuel Ray Volume 44 of xviii 1444025 Page 3 , oy 14. 11/14/60 cable to Director from MASH. Ray to surface at press conference scheduled for 11/16/60 in Miami. . aah 60 Cable to Director from MASH On 11/15/60. aliay Bender met with Ray in complete privacy. is.a natural leader of highest intellect, deepest sincerity ani convietion." Ray's political posture doubtful as far as U.S. government acceptance is concerned. Explained to Ray the U.S. government's desire to have all Cuban exiles unified in their efforts. Ray..says MRP does not wish to reinstate 1950 constitution. Provisional governmant of 30 honorable Cubans would be established and elections held 18 months thereafter. Castro laws passed at beginning of his regime to be promilgated. State would regulate private investment and utilities would be nationalized. Ray wants to keep MRP “lean and hungry" -- each member to have specific | responsibilities ani feel impottant to revolution. Ray asked for permission to start a fund drive in Cuba and U.S. Also asked for $10,000 by next Wednesday -- Bender made commitment. - believes net result of meeting was establishment of private MRP~- “ ““).S. Link and door remains open for some kind of relationship with FRD. Ray agrees to discuss this with Miro Cardona. -Of all the groups being supported, FRD, MRP and MRR are most significant. All Cuban groups seem to be looking to Bender group to show a preference before joining one of the above three. How long current flexibility can be maintained is problematical. x - 11/21/60 Memo for Record Subject: Meeting with King and Esterline on subject of handling MRP, 11/18/60 Consensus was that Ray did not politically represent anything to cheer about. Writer felt MRP opposed to joining FRD and recognized need to control MRP and wean it away to the extent possible from its leaders. Could be done by controlling financial and military support. It was agreed in meeting with Mr. Barnes that financial and military support for MRP be channelled through FRD. 17. 11/23/60 Contact Report: Meeting with Ray and Chibas in YC, 11/22/60 Ray says MRP has contacts at Isle of Pines with two garrisons and can expect about 750 men to desert Castro at proper time. CAPTAIN CAPOTA is contact with Ray's group. Ray's people also in contact with commander of prison where Huber Matos _ is incarcerated. Matos believes PADILLA, the prison commander, would assis* SECRET oss TST itt Re ec CT)
SECREL Betsy Palmer ‘File review of Mamel Ray Volume ii of xviii : Page i, 444 40826 him in an escape. Ray interested in single operation to get military defectors ani free Matos. Wants to effect plan on 11/27/60. Ray wants assistance from U.S. == miitary information end supplies. 18. 12/24/60 le to ctor from JMASH Meeting withfAMCHTRP-1 Jon 11/23, revealed he had information that MRP in Havena had capabilities to blow up power plant and TV stations in Havana -- a diversionary tactic planned to coordinate with Isle of Pines operation. Ray expects Isle of Pines operation support sbout 12/15/60. * Notation about Cable: “Operation Unity" is to create dramatic show which will demonstrate thet Manolo Ray is wrong when telling contacts in U.S. ‘that his group is the only one capable of action." . 19. 11/24/60 Cable to Director from Havana. Operation Unity involves MRR, MDI, OA, 30th ¢ of Novenber Group and MAR (not MAR of PEPIN RIVERO). MAR and OA groups to blow electric cables in Regla area. MDC group, at same time, to make assassination attempt on CARLOS RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ at University of Havana. 20. 11/30/60 Cable to Director from Havana JULIO ANGEL METRE advised planning to travel to Miami 12/2/60. escorted by Brazilian amhassador.to Panama. Accompanied by ambassador's wife. MESTRE will be introduced to Ray and will offer services of MDC to Ray at that ~ time. Mestre says plan is approved by “DRe CAS" (S0SE FERNANDEZ BADUE) MDC coordinator. in Cuba. SECRET
SEGREL Retsy Palmer File Re Review - Manuel Rivero Volume ITI of XVITT , March farch 30, 1978 . ay “December 1960 - Jamary 1961 t 47410827 . P 1. Cable 12/6/60_to Director from [cora } . Ray contacted el made statement that Isle of Pine's operation failed 6 Opinion because Bender failed to forward paper . to Havana with key to operation. . °. 2.. 12/8/60 Cable to Director from WAVE Ray advised he is departing for Washington game day to visit _  ERNESTA. COURT of OAS and others. In New York on 12/9 to contact | ‘Raul Chibas. Return Miami about 12/11/60. oo Be 12/23/60 Cable to Director from Havana indicates Ray wisheg return to Cuba as soon as possible andfasks that OLIEN make arrangements] through his official channel. Doesn't want Cubans in WAVE or Cuba to know of his return. os 12/20/60 Information report from U.S. ‘eltizen, ‘free-lance writer and _ Says Miro ‘Cardona. has accepted teaching position in Puerto Rico effective early January 1961. Is disgusted with bickering among anti-Castro Cubans and will sit on sidelines for time being. Is partivularly opposed to Ray -< program is ‘too Marxist and Ray is an opportunist. 5. 1/16/61. ‘Information Report from U.S. national in a U.S. governemnt. oS a agency. . Source had contact with DR. GUILLERMO SALAZAR SANCHEZ, former “Cuban ambassador to Switzerland and DR. SERGIO ROJAS SANTAMARINA, former 7 (One of the e) - Cuban Ambassador to United Kingdom. Salazer said he had heard from a reliable source that Ray was not a bona fide defector ani still acting On behalf of Castro and is a member of the “Blue Legion". | (no further a explanation. ) os ” “Dr. Salazar mentioned group called "The Ten Unknowns" who are key figures in making Communiet policy in Ietin America. (Ray not implicated as SEoRET
Betsy Palmer * t . : . - ? . 1 Review of Manuel Ray y Rivero Files, Volumes 1 ~ XVIII (201-239298 April 6, 1978 . 414140828 — VOIUME YOUUME IV ~ February 1, 1961 - March 31, 1961 ’ * 1. Operation Approval granted for Ray's use as a political asset on T February 1961 2. Memo to w/saSecurity, From wi/#?7cr , - ‘Subject: Eloy Gutierrez Menoyo Group | Date: 23 February 1961. Ray pressuring Mr. Droller to have four individuals freed from McAllen Detention Camp who belong to Gutierrez group. Ray claims they are ; members of his group and have been most active against Castro regime . 7. “in ¢ Cuba. - ‘They are as follows: ASENCIO, Suarez, Lazaro ; LESNIK, Menendez, Max DPOB 8 Sept 1930, Vueltas, Las Villas PORTA Bolanos, Gustavo REDONDO, Gonzalez, Roger | : aA Be | Cable ‘to Bell, from JMWAVE | Date: March 1, .1961 .  getime advises that Ray's group opposed to ‘banning Commnist Party and in favor of “nationalizing everything". Ray favors maintaining trade with USSR, wants no change in present agrarian reform program. Me Cable to JMWAVE from Bell Cr Date: March 10, 1942 oes ~ NS is concerned over the increased news coverage of Ray's’ arrival in “U.S. and activities here. Afraid they will be confronted about Ray's “"" “arrival (which was described as “bleck" in another commnication) so ~ =” _.JMWAVE asked to re-advise Ray that his story is that on 10 Nov 1960, he 9: Jended somewhere on Keys in a fishing boat, tiade way to road where picked © ~ ‘-up by INS patrol car, taken to WAVE area, examined, declared refugge and ‘released, with admonition to ‘always keep INS advised, of his address. £25. “Memo ‘to S- Dr. Berle, From: ARA - Philip We Bonsall © . __ Dabdects - Recant Cuban Developments oe March 16, 1961 ~ Conversation with Jose Miro Cardona and Berle, : “reveals that Cardona has  isgivings about Ray and Pazoz and the MRP. Says Ray is bitterly anti- .  pmerican as well as probably totalitarian in his thinking. Je no longer . pelfeves Ray has any considerable support inside Cuba. Jhinks Ray group "endeavoring to exercise influence in our government so as to be the major REE of whatever assistance can be obtained here. He is particularly ot Adth concerned about the role played by Felipe Pazos.
Review of Manuel Ray files Volume if of xviii er 1141062 6. Field Information Report - Subject: Background, Character and Economic Concepts of Manuel Ray Rivero - * Date:- 16 March 1961 Sources: || (paragraphs 1-11) Knew Ray in Cuba . (Pg 12) - Note: _ Cover note pencilled comment (Thé+content is so biased and mixed _ with untruth that it would be a disservice to the intelligence community . to disseminate it. synopsis of paragraphs 1-li. ays during his childhood Ray was a Protestant but today is completely atheistic. Said Ray organized the MRC against Batista and shortly after Batista's fall, MRC and 26th of July | Movement fused into one, and as soon as Castro came into power, control of the organization was given to the Commnists. Tells of Ray's association - oy with Castro and that he did not resign his position when his own brother “was. renounced by Castro. Stated that Ray's rupture with Fidel was due to the fact shat Ray opposed the idea of shooting Hubert Matos as a “traitor. - Ray resigned his post but said publicly that he approved. and ae “supported the Castro regime without any mental reservations. Says in Cuban clandestine circles Ray is regarded as boastful, ostentatious and? ~ deceitful. Intimate friends of Ray feel that he is a man of anti-democratic - Procedures and does not like to take edvice, even from members of his own meg nopsia of paragraph 12. kata a was in favor of maintaining So - - relatdions with USSR and not making Commmist Party illegal. Said that. although Ray withdrew all these statements when threatened with press coverage, they are representative of Ray's thinking and a, : would try put ‘ideas into practive if he ever came to power. ““giso mentioned Rays thinking on nationalization of public services, 7 socialized medicine, nationalization of banks, etc. ~ synopsis of paragraph 13. a. Ray well-intentioned with no . Commnist tendencies. Cited a meet, at which the basic points of the MRP platform were discussed and said that since Ray was in disagreement with a the others on most of the points, Dr. Felipe Pazos acted as chairman of the , - "meeting and Ray argued his case as a simple member of the group. Out of this - meeting came a declaration of 14 points, including the nationalization of the Danks and public utilities. on 9 March, Ray said that ideas attributed to him in paragraph 12 were not ‘true and part of a “campaign against him by Mr. Pawley of the Miami City Transit Company" RET
Review of Mamuel Ray files Volume if of xviii | Page 3 _ 141140230 . aK 7. Report dated March 17, 1961, Marked Urgent | ° "T+ has been reported by a very reliable source that Manuel Ray (MRP) is bringing as an Adviser, Professor Fiterre from Habana University - a _ {his man Fiterre is an undisclosed Commmist that has always openly admitted and. braged about being aCommmnist. * 8, Memorandum for the Record Date: 27 March 1961 Subject: Ray accepts appointment to Council: ----- Signed: Gerard Droller Miro was able to convince Ray to join CRC. mus, as of 27 March 191, - Council's composition isas follows: Chairman: Miro Cardona; Board of 7 Directors: Verona, Hevia, Carrillo, Maceo, Ray and Artime. . - 9. Memorandum for the Record Date: 27 March 1961 -..., Subject: Reported Anti-MRP Rally Promoted by Aureliano Sanchez Arango i. Signed: B..E. Reishhardt ; “gulio Lobo reported that Sanchez is planning a rally in Miami, 29 March to protest against the Ray/Pazos combine in the revolutionary council. Writer : says, Obviously, such a rally at this time could be most damaging and some . attempt should be made to get to Sanchez to take the steam out of this
ener rte ety ttn eee ica nee a NE ES cme ecm ene wae ee : - egir” 1 : 4 : Betsy Palmer Review of Manucl Ray y Rivero Files, Volumes I - XVIII . April 6, 1978 | VOTIME V = ri i - 1961 141410832, fh Cable from JMWAVE to Bell Date: April 3, 1961 Ray meeta witl{] Jhnd said he was not as yet jirepared to join Ge>™ sata Miro had welshed on commitments and while willing to acc t Ray into CRC, not willing to give him any voice in the Council. pptempts to | convince, Ray he was doing great disservice to Cuban people by refusing to serve wi tiHiRD. 26 Cable to JMWAVE from Bell Date: April 4, 1961 "To test actual MRP capabilities inside request you inform Ray to hit targets G, I and K during period 5-10 April. attack target 0 including diese] locomotive engines immediately. Will forward additional targets if Ray shows any capability." , « 3. Letter to Biitor (Pencililed note: Propaganda against MRP by Attime's replacement Jose Manuel Hernandez Puentes received from QD Date 6 Apr 61.) "T am a Cuban who still thinks ‘that Cuba can be rehabilitated after the fall of Castro. For this reason many Cubans have been baffled by the list of names now given as the saviors of Cuba for a Provisional Goverment. Among these are such notorious Castro followers as: Ray, Barquin, Pazos, Rufo oo Iopez Fresquet, Chibas and others whose names remind us of an era of a . mourning, persecution and misery." ake "Report on Manuel Ray received fro Da road and airfield construction engineer under Batista re - Cover note dated 4/7/61. outlines his distaste for Ray, citing at the beginning his refusal leave Castro even after the questionable suicide of his brother, Rene. — ‘After Ray was ousted from his Cabinet job, he continued to visit Castro,” occupying a prominent position in all Castro's public appearances. Said that even before Castro, Ray was an active member of the Cuban Orthodox - Party, highly infiltrated with commmists. Claims that when Ray in his _, Cabinet position, indoctrinations programs were held expousing commmnistic - ideals. Also while Minister of Public Works, claims he (Ray) threw out hundreds of employees without due cause and destroyed every successful contractor that existed. * 5. Memorandum for the Record - Subject: Custody of Revolutionary Council,.19-20 April 1961 Date® a] April 1961 Relates that on 19 April 1961, President ‘Kennedy met with the six members of FRD's Revolutionary Council where President expressed his deep sorrow and concern over the failure of the military effort (Bay of Pigs). Ray one of the
| | ‘. ° | SECRET Betsy palner Review of Manuel Ray Files Volume iv of xviii 11440R30 Page 2 “oe 6. Memorandum for the Record Subject: Manolo Ray ~ Comments on his Anti-Castro Activities Signed:.: Calvin, Hicks wi/4/pm/operations "Rey is balieved to have accomplished pratically nothing towards the effort to overthow. Castro. Instead, it seems that whenever we played with his so- called assets, we were burned. He is notorious for claiming assets or operations, several days after some other group had already set them up or claimed them. Whenever it came to producing and backing up his claims, he always came. up with excuses for not producing, rather than results. He has always tended to try to take over other goups, rather than cooperate with them, and when he couldn't take them over he would "politic" against then. His actions all seemed to be directed toward making him the future power in Cuba rather than toward overthrowing Castro. It is believed that Manolo RAY is so far "left" in his thinking that he would be as dangerous (or more so in the long run) to United States interests as Castro, if he ever got to be the power in Cu Te Memorandum for the Record Subject: Ydd7d/f Relations with Manolo Ray and the MRP Date: 2 e 1 bs Signed: In a 12 May 1961 meeting, Ray promises to write a prospectus of his plans ees for MRP within ten days. Not received by 2 June, but Ernesto Betancourt is aski for financial support for MRP activities. Tracy Barnes agrees . hat no money should be given Ray until his plans are studi po Ray Is as. for support separate from FRD since Ray has withdrawn from her states in Memo, “4i-I would like to pint out the 'V security ris ferent in any arrangements with His BENTANCOURT-CISNEROS trio. These fellows have had easy access to the White House and to the Department, are notorious for their ‘planned leaks', will probably presume all the Department officials they deal with are privy to the arrangement, and before we know it the whole exile commmity will be well aware that we are providing financial and material support to the RAY group." ¥ 8. Cable to Bell fron{ OD - Date June 8, 1961 On June 2, Venezuelas governemnt refused to issue a visa to Manolo Raye 9. Cable to Director from{ __Jdated June 28, 1961. re: meeting with Jose R. Barbeito on 20 June in Valencia. Barbeito claims was member of MRP of Manolo Ray and took part clandestine activities Havana. Admitted was commnist "many years ago" but now completely opposed to Castro and Communism. SECRET
. mo , SERRET Betsy Palmer Review of Mamiel Ray Files Volume v of xviii. ; Page see 3 11110833 10. Intelligence Report Date: 7-11 July 1961 Place: San Juan, P.R. ‘Source: Cuban Exile Lawyer Evaluation: F-6 Report transmits information concerning activities, persons visited and ‘purpose of visit of Ray to Puerto Rico, terminating when Ray hurridely left Puerto Rico following press account that he had been removed as Coordinator of the MRP. Source said MRP leaders in exile believe Rays dismissal due to propaganda and pressures by the CIA which brought about the impression that the obstacle to receipt of help from outside (money, arms, etc) was Ray himself and that ‘ones Ray removed, they would receive all types of help. The exile leaders are. of opinion that it was also brought about because Ray was a divisionist _ inasmuch as he had abandoned Cuban Democratic Revolutionary Council. — SEGREL
Review: ‘Of Manuel R Ray y Rivero Files Volumes I - XVIII April 6, 1978 Volume VI ~ August 1, 1961 - June = 30, 1962 — 11410834 Betsy Palmer l. Cable to JMWAVE from Director . Date: August 1, 1961 FEI conducting investigation on MRP and Ray and Director indicates he needs to know purpose of investigation to respond properly. -_d 2. Dispatch from Chief of Base, JMWAVE Date: August 4, 1961 “Subject: Debriefing off SOD | . ] j Jrecently arrived from Cuba as a political - exile. At at uncheon meeting, he reported as follows: ~ MRP formed in Cuba around 26 July 1960. Organizers were Dr. Amalio Fiallo Gonzalez, Dr. Antonio Fernandez Nuevo, Reynol Gonzalez, Humberto Perez Herrera. ’ All these men belonged to group called Accion Democratica. The name of MRP was suggested by Raul Chibas and in itself it does not constitute a party _ or group but rather a coalition of several smal Groups, waich were the following: _@e The 20 May group, led by Manuel Ray b. Accion Democratica, led by Dr. Fiallo c. Accion Verde Olivo, led by Dr. Rufo Lopez Fresquet ad. 30 November Movement, led by David Salvador (never really Joined ) . @.» Chibas' group with Jorge Beruff and Felipe Pazos . £. Dr. Valdez Pino, in asylum in Embassy of Peru and belonged 49 Accion Democratica,. ~ opinion of Bay is that he had no way of Judging whether is Comminist or Marxist. lacks quality of leadership because he - does not publically hold to a definite political, social and economic saeology. ~° .i°He appears to-agree with every--person he talks to, never arguing with them - =. Or opposing them, all of which’shows he has no ideology and makes him a - ‘very dangerous man. Is extremely ambitous for himself, with great desire . for powers me orandum for Chief, Wi Division, dated 10 october 1961, from( +d _+) % bject: General - Cuban Matters; Specific - Manuel (Monolo) Ray _ — Board of Puerto Rico announced on 9 October 1961 that Ray has accepted position as consultant to that Board. Board is an important agency of Puerto Rican government, attached to the Office of the Governor. Has "broad powers over economic and social planning and is active in exercising vc “these powers. Ray to receive $12,000 per year. Ray presently in Venezuela but expected to arrive Puerto Rico within a week.
@ . . Betsy Palmer Review of Manuel Ray y Rivero Files “ ‘Volume vi of xviii 114410835 Page 2 , , h. Cable to Director from JMBAVE, dated May 27, 1962 discusses front page article in Miami Herald of this date by James Buchanan entitled “Miro fades ' as Exile Chief: Three Ietin Leaders Behing Ray". States that Ray has the backing of Gov. Monoz Marin, Pres. Romilo Betancourt and former President _Jose Figueras and that Ray has taken over post with blessings of the U.S. - SF urther states Ray's appointment as "Chief in Exile" came from underground. oe -4n Cuba according to Joaquin Godoy, Provisional MRP head in Miami. Article oe credits Cubans in Miami with saying “new man in field" is Adolf A. Berle, JX. _ who has been: special asst. to State Dept. and is also member of Pres. _ Kennedy's special task force on Laftin America. Implication being that “Berle is running new U.S. sponsored Cuban effort. Release causing furor vin local Cuban colony. " “Cable to JMWAVE from Director, 28 May 1962 states State Department spokesman . wid state story without foundation at a noon press briefing this date. a a “Listing of principal persons in Puerto Rico with the MRP RAY, ‘Manuel PORTELA, J. Migues PAZOS, Felipe CARMONA, Claudio . . BARQUIN, (Col) Ramon ESTEVE2Z, Jeromino . MELENDEZ, juan BERGNUS | GELAVERT. ALVAREZ, Gabriel. _ NODAL, Rodolfo PORTELA, Sara 6. On 9 June 1964 Ray transmitts & detailed “study of : a general 3 program Ce designed to attain the liberation of Cuba. .. General Thesis states that | - MRP believes that the strongest position. for representation and canalization . oe ' of aspirations of the large majority of the Cuban People is offered by the a ‘set of ideas and aims of the democratic deft.
7 q eS ret ; | hee SFEREI__ Betsy palmer Review of Manuel Ray y Rivero Files, Volumes I ~ VIIT April 2k, 1978. - 11410233 Volume VEI , ‘Jifly 1962 - August 1962_ ; : ee Cable dated July 2, 1962 to Director - Glear that Manolo Ray pooked upon with great favor by Puerto Rican _ government. No evidence, however, that Puerto Rican goverment is supporting the MRP. Believe record will show that while our past — contact with Ray has not always been happy one, it always revealing of Ray's intentions. | * 2, | Memo for Chief, Task Force W from Alfonso Rodriguez 12 July 1962 '. Subject: Manolo Ray Rivero . * °- “Ray has indicated to WAVE sources that whereas he is not persona grata with the Agency, he has important political connections in Washington and is thus kept informed: of mich of the Agency's activities. Ray's new | - organization is not to be military or engage in military thrusts against _, Cuba because military activity is presently controlled by the Agency and cannot be wrested from it at this time. Ray's new organization will | _. cooperate with the Consejo and attempt to move in on it with the ultimate '. aim of taking over and dominating it." .. |. ” Memorandum for Chief, Task Force W from ‘Alfonsoy/ Rodriguez 25 July 1962 : b 3." x Subject: _ Manolo Ray Meeting in New York Ray sorry he. joined FRD prior to April invation. Let tide of time suck him in and take him along. Obvious to him that show run in good faith but . _. bad judgment. Ray discusses hope that JURE will be long-lasting organization ‘in Cuba. “Ray's political views ase assessed as democratically oriented, and _ .. 24f he became ruler of Cuba, his greatest preoccupation would be with economic . . progress. “::Rodriguez says Ray is not to be unier-‘estimated. Commands . respect because he is well educated and has something to contribute. — 4. Ray begins to give information about possible defectors from Castro. _ a * Cable dated 25 1962 reports that Ray toldf ———SSC«* that --"B, - Aaditional information to a July 1962 memorandum -: from (named _;.0n interoffice route slip). Information obtained from difference sources ‘from persons close to Ray and their views are complete reliable. Ray did ~not leave Castro's cabinet because of ideological or policy discrepancies _.. with Castro but because of a heated discussion with the Minister of Labor. ... Martinez Sanchez, who almost shot Ray. after a Cabinet meeting. The sources | , Of information agree that Ray is not any different than Castro. Some of “. “them believe he may not have completely severed his relations with Castro _..and think he may still be in contact with him. Diplomatic relations were _ suspended but recognition was not withdrawn. ... &. Memo from dated July 16, 1962 Cover letter addressed - to Says Ray's ethics are poor and he is capable of sacrifycing his own kin and friends if such sacrifice turns out in favor of his personal plans. Claims Ray is irresponsible and ignorant of present international conditions and particularly of the Cuban social and economic reality.
| fy - SFERET., Betsy Palmer “Manolo Rey 14140837 ‘Volume VII continued “Quotes Ray as having said, "When I was Minister of Public Works, we, the inner circle of the Department, took a course in Marxist economics, and Sf ‘What we were taught is commnism, I mist say that communism is not as bed as it is. claimed to be." ' 8. Report on visit with in Puerto Rico during first week of June, 1962, submitted by ugh( - states his general impression of Ray was a good one -- seems of be a moderate, intelligent man, a little given to hysteria and slogan-mongering. Best “quality is in his ‘skill as an organizer , 9. Cable to Director from IJMWave, dated Aug 15, 1962 DIR Cite WAVE 7062 Ray had meeting in Miami area 11 or 12 August in which an informant says “Ray stated that he has arsenals in Venezuela and Qominican Republic, has a B26 plane, territory available for training in Costa Rica ani has the support through indirect means of U.S. Has invited journalists from New. ‘York Times and Time Magazine to cover his announcement. of the formation of JURE. “to. ‘Cable to exico City }eron Director, dated 6 August 63 says Ray plans _ to travel to‘tentral Amefica late August or September and needs visitors visa .. .for Mexico. Says he has close acquaintance ami wants to make personal oe effort to. recruit him or talk him into defecting. | ; “CrA makes Anguiries in an ettort{ to obtain visa for Ray. _) ML. cable to Director fron{ sit dated August 20, 1962. Ray believes _ will defect but needs financial support. _/ onnection. - “Ray had agreed in N.Y. meeting to make recruitment or defection ffort towards Cuban Ambassador in Mexico. Meno to hier, Task Force W from Alfonso Rodriguez dated 2h Aug 1962 Subject: odriguez. feels veginning sallaunatian with maw aan he twaed on tine” = pecific Proposals: 1. one 2. . ecoumends paying Ray| $84, 700 Jover a six month period to begin this initial ; operation. ae SECRET —
"Review of Manolo Ray y Rivero Files - Volumes 1 ~ XVIII_ Betsy Palmer April 2h, 1978 , . 11440839 Volume VIII - September 4, 1962 - December 27, 1962 , Be 1. Telegram Information Report (circa Sept. 10) Unevaluated information. Ray in the U.S. 8-9 September. Intends forming new organization. Some of those participating with Ray in this effort are Felipe Pazos, Raul Chibas, Ramon Barquin and Justo Carrillo. Rey is of the opinion that nothing will be done about Cuba in the immediate future as the President of the United States is fulfilling "an expedient of a political nature." However, there is an ally in the White House who has assured Ray that if he organizes - a purely revolutionary group, he will be heard. 2. Junta Revolucionaria Cubana i: «Declaration of Principles outline the following areas: | 1. Cuban Reaffirmation - recognition of sovereignty of the people, through suffrage 2. Human Rights - human fraternity and social solidarity for all Cubans 3. Social Justice - equality of opportunity for education, work, homes, etc. lh, Economic Development ~- intense industrialization S. Agrarian Reform - Cuban pesantry to own land he cultivates 6. International Relations - break with Soviet bloc 7. Restoration of Legitimate Property ~ not that under public power &. Political Parties - Communist Party will be proscribed 9. Political Prisoners - immediate release 10. Elections - within 18-month period _ 2. Dispatch to Chief, Task Force WY from Chief of Station, JMWAVE Date obscured Do CamrupILi-l]provided information on Ray obtained tronf_ lee t® fellow student of Ray's at Instituto de Segunda Ensenanza #1 in avana. Ray never know’to have sympathy for Communist cause. However, one one of his good friends, Pedro Valdes Vivo, is active member of Communist cell wUcee 8 9 gna g brother of. Raul Valdes Vivo, now sub-director of Commmnist paper’ . "Noticias de Hoy." / . 3. Cable to Priority{ ——__ Dtnto: Priority JMUAVE, Priority[Mexico city _] i From: Director (R guez Originator) dated 9 Oct 1962 Admission visa not pauched 00 forwarding document will be in WAVE hands 10 October forfass ing to Ray. 4. Memorandum for the Record dated 8 October 1962 from, -_) Subject: Notes on Manolo Ray In conversation with Iais Laboy, Iaboy said Ray does not have any significant following among Cuban exiles -- says Ray is honest person completely motivated by patriotism but lacks qualities of a politician. Says Ray is too blunt and even Cisneros is not happy with him these days. ' Puerto Ric Police are apparently canvassing Cuban exiles regarding Manolo Ray. In@Mun-lJreport #54 dated 30 Sept 1952, he refere to fact that both he and Fe ‘Alvarez Silva were visited by officer of PR Internal Security Force soliciting their opinions of Ray.
SECRET Betsy Palmer Manuel Ray — , 5 Volume VIII continued | 11110239 5. Excerpt from Bohemia Libre 21 October 1962, page 85 Engineer Ray'& Jatest Atti tute _ letter to magazine from Olga Hernandez, Santurce, PR - an exile. who believes Ray really a Comminist. Her reasons based on Ray's statements to "El Mundo" on his arrival in exile that after Castro's defeat there should be maintenance of cultural and economic relations with Russia, maintenance of militia, mainenance of confiscated property, socialized medicine, supervision of national schools and gradual supression of private schools. |
Review of Manuel Ray y Rivero Files, Volumes I ~ XVIII pril oh, 1978 Betsy Palmer 11440840 Volume IX ~ January 1963 - July 1%3 | 7 1. Cable to Director troo{ ates Feb. 22, 1963 ‘FRANCISCO SUAREZ QUINONES wishes travel to Maimi to attend JURE rally 2k February. In view Ref B (WAVE 2462) info that Suarez communist and also MRP member, DCM has asked if any info that Suarez was undercover agent for MRP or if he may be double agent working for Castro. 2. Confidential Controlled Dissem. dated 3 June 1963 _ ‘Title: ‘Plan of Manuel Ray Rivero to Infiltrate the Ranks of the Central Intelligence Agency” . On 30 April 1963, Rogelio Cisneros reported on meeting of JURE exec. board in his home attended by, among others, Antonio Arias. During meeting, Cisneros said it was mentioned that Ray had issued orders to infiltrate a trusted man into the CIA in order to learn details of any plans with regard _ to Cuba and if possible infiltrate this man into Cuba. Cismeros also said JURE planning leaflet drop into Cuba which will include such matters as Ray's Manifesto against the U.S. Government and against the CIA. | a Cable to Director from ata 19 June 1963 #T7272 Ray in Paris {contacted by |}. Ray driven to airport by Alberto Baez with whom Ray spent much time and who seems to be closest to Ray among his contacts in Paris.. Ray in Paris and Brussels for purpose of (turing | Also Ray convinced Cubans here disillusioned with Castro.f Asks for update o 2” h. Memo for the Record from Alfoiso Rodreguez, dated 19 June 1963 ' Gubject: Manolo Ray Ray's attitude towards CIA - feels that the Agency has in the past purposely and actively attempted to destroy him as a political leader and has proor of at least one CIA officer plotted with certain MRP officiais to remove him from the Mrp as a condition for CIA assistance to that organization. Ray cannot be overlooked in the struggle for Cuban freedom. "“-- of all the Cubans I have met, he is the most purposeful, methodical, as well as the most experienced clandestine operator.." 5. Confidential Controlled Dissem. dated 27 June 1963 Re: Creation of an Intelligence Corps within the JURS feliable information from former Rebel Army member (F) active in clandestine movements. JURE meeting gabout 30 March 1963 at home of journalist Antonio Arias said JURE national executive board had created an Intelligence Corps with JURE whose function was to infiltrate JURE members into various
Nt a Re PE A ee RR eee nae 44220841 "Volume Ix continued organizations operating in Miami, as well as into some of the agencies of the U.S. govt. Said intelligence group would produce great results and | stated as an example the infiltration of the U. S. Amy. 6. Dispatch to Chief, Special Affairs Staff from Chief of Station, JMWAVE Dated July 22, 1963 7 Subject: Manuel Ray Rivero's Opinion of CIA “AUP~2.‘source of info) “During a conversation on.an unspecified date, involving[AMTAUP-2 JRay and Rogelio Cisneros Diaz, Ray told Cisneros that they had to be very careful - with CIA agents because they were more dangerous than the Kennedy Administration. The Kennedy Administration would end but the CIA agents always stayed, and their memory was longer than the memory of elephants and they never forgot or forgeve. Ray told Cisneros that he feared CIA agents would try to . assassinate him because they were irreconcilable enemies."
. on vee wa oakahh 7: ¢ Betsy Palmer Review of Files of Manuel Ray y Rivero, Volumes I ~ XVITT. April 24, 1978 | 41410842 Volume X- August 1963_ - September 1963 1963 we * 1. Memoranium for the Record from Alfonso Rodriguez, dtd. 2 August 1963 ae Subject: Meeting with Ray (27 July 1963 in Miami) - “Ray“to attempt a sabotage operation against the Havana power plant | and..wants .- 201bs high explosives as well as 6-8 thermite grenades. Requested that the - materials be cached inside Cuba (preferably) or in San Juan. Requested that ‘arrangements be made for Rogelio Cisneros to visit Guatanamo to visit his brother to inform him of JURE plans -- Rodriguez says possibility remote. _. Ray planning to visit Caracas and Costa Rica later if he has a visa from - “Mexico.” _ Purpose of trip is fund raising... oo Be Cable from JMWAVE to Director #63249 dtd 22 Aug 1963 mo c Ray's forwarded WAVE by safehand Sept 62 and request it - “be airmailed to Ray in Puerto Rico..“JRay planning trip Costa Rica, Caracas, Dou. Rep. and Mexico. Departing San Juan 29 August for first leg. : | 3. Memorandum for the Record dated 23 August 1963, from A. Rodriguez He Subject: “Ray, Contact Report Met with Ray in N. Y.C. on 19 August. ‘Rodriguez recommends to Ted Shackley that ammunition for JURE be cached near Florida Keys. Thinks it necessary to help Ray this much in order to measure his capabilities. Ray is having a 25-foot boat outfitted in Miami area to be operational by about Sept. 10. . .Will be used primarily for infiltration and exfiltration of personnel into '» Cuba. Ray also says he has been offered a 210 ft. Corvette, flying a .. . Venezuelan flag and owned by Spaniards friendly to JURE. ...Said he could. extend yt -: operations along the south coast of Cuba for as much as. 2. 3 weeks with . _ this vessel. Ray was interested in whether or not KIM flights were to be -. «:-resumed into.Cuba as he is hopeful of returning by legal means which would - ' not pose as many difficulties as present Mexican amd Spanish air, travel | ae 7 conditions. - —— i . Ray says he hoped to soon penetrate the Cuban delegation ‘to ‘the U. YN. opt -- Said his contact with through a woman member of the :;. JURE, continues, but without significant progress. | is most . 5 ~~. friendly towards her but does not wish to discuss any of his problens with ’ her. : a . ot et ‘Rodtiques recommends continuation of monthly #10,¢ 600 ‘payments to Jure ‘and. os a an additional $15,00 to cover cost of vessels to be acquired. -- total of | , $25,000 nonthly for 6 months. : he “Cable to Director from JMWAVE, dated oh August 1963 42322287, -. Ray Mexican visa waiver number 50844 issued 3: Sept 62 valid for six months, _« ™ hence now expired. Under circumstances, WAVE not mailing to Ray unless Ts otherwise instructed. 5. Cable to JMWAVE from Director, dtd 2h Aug 63 Cite Dir. 63774 Please eir mail as Ray will need to procure new waiver. S
- sa “cable to ‘Director from MEXI ata 2T sépt 196 sett E Betsy Palmer Volume X continued aa : 11430843 6. cableto{ SS t™—~—CSTCOCSCSCSCSSCSCSS*SdS AVE From; Director dated 31 August 63 Ray departing 29 Aug. on trip to first three addees. Attempting renew Mexican visa waiver for travel there later. Purpose of trip to solicit political backing, raise funds, tighten JURE organization, steeamline communication and establish take~otf points for operations against target. eT Cable to Director from JMWAVE ata 7 Sept 63, Ref WAVE 3895*% Reported conversation with Ray's sister-in-law wherein she stated Ray visited her home on 30 August to say Zoodby. He was going to be infiltrated .. into Cuba and would not see her for some time. Said he was not in accord | with certain U.S. officials on Cuban policy and has no confidence in U.S. . ability to liberate Cuba. Said he had refused two invitations extended _ by RK to discuss @uban situation. 8. - Document transfer and Cross Reference dtd - 10: ‘Sept: 63 f UFG-03590 7] ‘Ray arrived secretly in Miami from Puerto Rico, had secret meeting with Manuel Quiza Docal, IDR of Cubanos Libres, in which Quiza officially connected his organization to JURE for all action. Later traveled to “ON, Y.C. %o purchase c-k explosives. * 9. Cable to Director from JMWAVE dta Ww L sept . 63, ‘peport rt fronfimaup-2 | who spake with Rogelio Cisneros on 6 Sept. Cisneros stated Ray departed for Costa Rica on 5 Sept to interview President Orlich. Said on Ray's last meeting with RFD? “the private secretary of President Romulo Betancourt was present. Cisneros said JURE objective is to have different prominent ‘figures in Latin American governments witness promises made by U.S. govt. - Cisneros said JURE not obligated to report military or political plans to | -7CTA but. CIA obligeted to deliver to JURE. ell military equipment needed to fight Castro. Delivery of equipment will ‘be on ‘Bigh seas from a CIA boat to (JURE boat which will proceed to Cuba. - 10. Cable to Director from JMWAVE, dated 6 Sept 63. “Blania Germania (Bernal) de Paula reported she learned from her brother-in-lay, Manuel Ray, that he: ‘had recently been in Europe negotiating arms purchases » in Belgium. Contact . _ man for purchase gt Col. Ramon Barquin. : ae Ce (0 BI 2 ppproached by Julio Lanier on beialf Sf Hay end JURE. Want to start military operation against Cuba using Mexico as a base. Lanier says “<> Ray receiving money from Venezuela, 2 is a CIA agent - Kuban citizen living in Mexico. [extcan station wants - to keep him clean of overt exile a activity. he
o te - RET Betsy Palmer Review of ' Files on Manuel | Ray y Rivero, ‘Volumes I ~ XVITI _ April 2k, 1978 j . a ; 11110844 Volume XI = October 1963 - December 1963 1. Field Information Report dated 1 October 1963 Notes that source (a _ former Cuban diplomat who is a reliable source) said Ray in Tegucigal: ; Honduras about week or 10 days ago -- had spoken with Foreign Minister Roberto Perdomo Paredes (has a 201/). A radio station manager says Ray there about 20 September. 2. Memo for the Record, 2 October 1963 from Alfonso Rodriguez . Met with Ray in San Juan Sept. 24-25, 1963. Said Ray departing Puerto Rico October 7, 1963 for Venecuela and perhaps Mexico. Ray and JURE involved in infiltrating Cuba and subsequently invading. . Co GS “Dispatch 3 October 1963 to Chief, WHD from(Cs on 26 Sept 1963, ee (c) E~1, plearned that Jose Puente Blanco recently met with Ray in Costa ca for a 3-day meeting. | * 4. Draft, dtd 4 October 1963 by Rodrique -& . Subject: Manuel Ray Rivero _ ,, Ray, unlike many Latain American political leaders, is convinced that organization and work alone can assure lasting political success. Ray's “philosophy is a way of life. He is a prodigious worker, given to study of details (training at U. of Utah mentioned) Ray devoting full time to JURE - : 5. Contact Report 15, dtd 8 October 1 a Sooo Contact with MRR member by [co ould like to know what position to take re: Ray i A-19 asks about U.S. backing.j{ A-19 joonsiders Ray part of Kremlin conspiPacy to put someone in “power in place’of Castro./ CO has told A-19 }that MRR are CIA's "chosen “people” but if someone in'U.S. (maybe Staté Dept) wants Ray, CIA will have -.' Cable to Director from JMWAVE, dtd 11 Oct 63 “i< DIR Info, [BARR,|MEXI Cite WAVE 5656 . “Persecution o ‘s Mexico City delegation by local secret police ‘DOI: 26 Sept 63 © . - Be , nformation received from Rogelio Cisneros Diaz. Cisneros advises delegation to work claniestinely, operate in cells, and not maintain public offices ‘as they had in the past. o
sy SECRET Betsy Palmer Volume XI continued - page 2 , 14 t 4084S 7. Cable to Director from JMWAVE, dtg 11 Oct 63 On October 1, Cisneros tells \AMTAUP-1 that Ray to visit Betancourt later in week to report on status of negotiations with U.S. and promises made to Ray by RFK during recent interviews. » &. CAble 172301%Z 17 October 53 to Director from JMWAVE. On 15 Qctober 1963, Jose (Gomez) Rodriguez, aka Cabeza, JURE member tells AMTAUP-—). that Cia officials from Washington, D. C. coming to Miami to finalize agreements with JURE. Also said JURE would never tell CIA exact _ landing sites on Cuban coast. 9. Cable to Director from Mexico City, 26 October 1963 . Secret 260035Z Dir WAVE Cite Mexi 6677 Ref A Mexi 6455 (not sent WAVE) (IN 36021 REF B HMMA 22285 (also r 2285) - JURE representative Julio Lanier pressing LI (ot) ‘fo obtain Mexican visas for Iuis Gitn Figueredo and Rogelto Cisneros Diaz who want to inspect plane of Ref A. . 7 Fast action needed or L-2 (will not be able to meet Cisnero and have an “in" with JURE group for p e of coverage of JURE PM activities Mexi. Lanier will set up meeting in Miami or San Juan. | ok 10. Dispatch to Chief, Special Affairs _from CS/JMWAVE, dtd 21 Oct 63 Information received from} AMTAUP-2 Ray to arrive in Miami 26 July; in secret, because he wanted to hold private meetings to discuss military affairs with action groups in Miami. Met at home of Rogelio Cisneros Diaz on 28 July. Met with Armando Alanis Angulo and . asked him to join JURE. Alanis former Chief of Fiscal District of the Treasury in Camaguey Province. Ray says he has organization inside Cuba ve but needs personnel on outside with which to operate. Claimed to have 300 "Weapons in Miami. -.-0n-18. August, Cisneros meets: with Alanis and Luis Aguiar (who belongs to _ Alanis group). Talked of plans for Aguiar's men to infiltrate Las Villas a st Province and open a JURE organization. ‘Alanis officially joins JURE on 20 August 1963 and received Cisnero assurances they will get financial help from JURE. Cable to Chief, Special Affairs Staff from JMWAVE/CS dtd 22 Oct 1963 '6. On 30 September, Ray departed for San Juan from Miami, after having visited Venezuela, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama to gain support for operations ageinst Cuba. 12. Cable 79065 on 29 October 1963. | ill arrive San Juan arises. 19623 to r-et Ray in St. Thomas. [Do not vlan contact unless need @rises. “SEGREF