The interaction between the U.S. and the Soviet Union that epitomized Cold War tensions was the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. This 13-day confrontation was triggered by the discovery of Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba, just 90 miles from the U.S. mainland. It brought the two superpowers to the brink of nuclear war, highlighting the dangers of the Cold War standoff. The crisis ended with a negotiated settlement, including U.S. promises not to invade Cuba and the secret removal of U.S. missiles from Turkey. The resolution underscored the importance of diplomacy in addressing conflicts during this perilous period.