“TOTAL WAR” DECLARED

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28554, 7 April 1958, Page 11

“TOTAL WAR” DECLARED

Announcement By Castro (Rec. 7 p.m.) NEW YORK. April S. The Cuban rebel chief, Fidel Cutro, declared "total war” against President Batista, at 12.1 am today, the American Asaoctated Press reported from Havana. Mounting tension and military preparedness of Government forces were apparent In Havana. Castro's favourite guerrilla-type attack usually comes just before dawn. Government forces in Havana and throughout Cuba were dug in to meet what might coma then. Castro said war would be waged pitilessly against all armed forces and persons supporting the President until he wu toppled from power. “From this instant on, the country is in a state of total war against the tyranny of Batista,” Castro Mid. “The wu will bo waged implacably.” When news of his announcement came Havana's streets and nightspots were deserted. Civilians stayed behind locked doors In their homes awaiting Castro's first big move. As the first step Castro said that action by armed patrols attacking the armed forces and the nation's transport and communications system would be intensified. Rebel sources in Havana said they awaited Castro’s word as to whst action should be taken to win in the nation's capital. There were no immediate reports of any outbreaks in Havana or elsewhere in Cuba. Reinforced police patrols and secret police maintained a eharp watch in all sectors of the capital.