What event severly strained US-Soviet relations?

Answer 1

The Cuban Missile Crisis severely strained the US and Soviet relations. The Cuban Missile Crisis was a 13-day ordeal in October 1962 involving Cuba and the Soviet Union against the US. This time was the closest to being a nuclear conflict in the Cold War.

Answer 2

The most famous and severe incident to strain USA - Soviet relations was known as the Cuban missile crisis.

This occurred in 1962 and is the closest (as far as the public is aware) that the world has come to a third world war (an all out nuclear war). The Russians were attempting to maintain bases on Cuba capable of launching nuclear missiles at mainland USA. This was a particularly severe threat to the USA given the proximity of Cuba (there would be next to no warning of any incoming strike). The Russians saw this as righting the imbalance brought about by NATO's nuclear missile capability in Turkey (which, of course, is right on their own border).

A standoff temporarily ensued and the world waited with baited breath, not knowing if this would lead to war. Thankfully, common sense won the day and a compromise was reached which avoided a violent (a potentially devastatingly violent) outcome.

Answer 3

Many events severely strained US- Soviet relations, mainly connected with inflated egos on both sides/.