Final answer:
The Khrushchev response refers to the Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev's diplomatic strategy, balancing aggressive rhetoric with a preference for peaceful resolutions, notably during the Cuban Missile Crisis where his actions averted nuclear war.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Khrushchev response in a diplomatic meeting typically refers to the Soviet leader's approach to international crises and his interaction with the United States during the Cold War, especially regarding the Cuban Missile Crisis. Nikita Khrushchev's response to avoid a nuclear confrontation with the US led to the Soviet Union agreeing to remove missiles from Cuba in exchange for the US not invading Cuba and secretly removing its missiles from Turkey. This incident highlighted Khrushchev's preference for a peaceful resolution over his government officials who advocated for a stronger stance, ultimately averting a nuclear war.
In addition, Khrushchev engaged in aggressive rhetoric against the West in multiple speeches, including one famous instance where he declared his intent to "bury" the West, which was interpreted as predicting a collapse under their own capitalist systems. Despite these proclamations, he also signaled a willingness for peaceful coexistence with the West. This balance of fierce rhetoric and willingness to engage in dialogue represents Khrushchev's complex diplomatic strategy during his leadership.