Who was the leader of the Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis?

The leader of the Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis was Nikita Khrushchev. This event, which occurred in October 1962, was a pivotal moment in the Cold War, marked by heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. Khrushchev was in power from 1953 until 1964 and is often remembered for his policies of de-Stalinization and his confrontational stance toward the West during the early years of the Cold War.

Khrushchev's decision to place nuclear missiles in Cuba was seen as a direct challenge to U.S. foreign policy, leading to a 13-day standoff between the two superpowers. His actions and subsequent negotiations with President John F. Kennedy ultimately played a crucial role in averting what could have escalated into a nuclear war. Understanding Khrushchev's leadership during this period provides insight into the complexities of international relations and the balance of power during the Cold War era.