What key event happened during John F. Kennedy's presidency related to the Cold War?

During John F. Kennedy's presidency, the Cuban Missile Crisis is a significant event that exemplifies the heightened tensions of the Cold War. This crisis occurred in October 1962 when the United States discovered Soviet nuclear missiles stationed in Cuba, just 90 miles off the coast of Florida. This event marked the closest point the world had come to nuclear war and required Kennedy to navigate a complex situation involving military threats and diplomatic negotiations.

Kennedy's response included a naval blockade aimed at preventing further shipments of missiles to Cuba and a demand for the removal of the existing missiles. The crisis ultimately concluded with a deal where the Soviets agreed to remove the missiles in exchange for the United States promising not to invade Cuba and secretly agreeing to remove U.S. missiles from Turkey. This event is pivotal in Cold War history due to its impact on U.S.-Soviet relations and the measures taken to avoid future nuclear confrontations.