The ruler of the Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile Crisis was Nikita Khrushchev. He held the position of First Secretary of the Communist Party and was the Premier of the Soviet Union from 1953 until 1964. Khrushchev is particularly remembered for his role in the Cold War, during which he aimed to promote Soviet influence globally. The Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962 was a pivotal moment, as it brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. It began when the U.S. discovered Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba. Khrushchev's leadership during this tense period ultimately led to a negotiated settlement, which eased tensions temporarily.