Khrushchev Announces the Withdrawal of Missiles From Cuba
On October 28, 1962, Radio Moscow announced Soviet acceptance of a settlement involving removal of the offensive missiles from Cuba.
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A Public Acceptance
On October 28, 1962, Radio Moscow announced Soviet acceptance of a settlement involving removal of the offensive missiles from Cuba.
The Exchange Described
Khrushchev’s message linked withdrawal to American assurances against invading Cuba. The public agreement followed dangerous exchanges and incidents during the previous days.
Announcement Was Not Immediate Removal
Missiles and associated equipment did not disappear as soon as the statement aired. Verification, dismantling and transport required further arrangements.
A Primary Document
The Kennedy Library preserves the message in translation. Reading it shows the commitments being communicated rather than relying on a simplified claim that one side simply surrendered.
A Turning Point, With Work Remaining
The announcement ended the crisis’s most dangerous public phase. It did not remove the need to implement the settlement or resolve every issue surrounding the confrontation.
Sources
- October 28, 1962 - Cuban Missile Crisis - John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum — John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- Letter From Chairman Khrushchev to President Kennedy, October 28, 1962 - Cuban Missile Crisis - John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum — John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
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