The Bomb Kennedy and Khrushchev: 3. Gamble
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Dec 15, 2025 Dive into the high-stakes drama as Khrushchev secretly plans to move nuclear missiles to Cuba. Explore the personal bond between Khrushchev and Castro that fuels this audacious strategy. Hear about the secretive, overcrowded journey of Soviet ships and the intense political backdrop following the Bay of Pigs. Discover how Khrushchev's vision unfolds during a pivotal Varna walk, culminating in a decision that could alter the course of history. This thrilling tale blends individual stories with the chilling realities of Cold War tensions.
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Harlem Bear Hug Secures A Personal Bond
- Fidel Castro met Nikita Khrushchev in Harlem during the 1960 UN General Assembly and they staged a publicized embrace.
- The photo-op cemented a personal bond and political theatre between Castro and Khrushchev.
Bay Of Pigs Fueled Ongoing Covert Pressure
- The Bay of Pigs defeat convinced US leaders, including Robert Kennedy, that Castro's regime must be countered by further covert actions.
- This drove Operation Mongoose and sustained US pressure that increased Cuban reliance on Soviet support.
Sabotage Campaign Increased Cuban Vulnerability
- Operation Mongoose's sabotage and exile activities left Castro feeling exposed and convinced that the US would attempt further aggression.
- That perception made Cuba more receptive to dramatic defensive measures from the USSR.
