You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
alternatehistory.com
In 1964 when Leonid Brezhnev ousted Nikita Khrushchev as leader of the USSR he was briefly opposed by a more hardline faction within the CPSU led by former KGB chief Alexander Shelepin. Brezhnev managed to outmaneuver Shelepin and remove him and his KGB allies from office in 1967. Let's say he and his supporters manage to preempt and oust Brezhnev in 1965 or 1966. How would the USSR turn out under his leadership?
From what I've read he wanted a return to Stalin's reign of terror to restore "order and discipline" within the USSR and crackdown on corruption, hence why some feared his bid for leadership. Sounds like he also opposed detente and wanted an aggressive foreign policy. Would he compromise with the liberal faction such as Kosygin or Podgorny on economics in order to retain his position? Any input is greatly appreciated!