So, by the second week of October 1941, the Soviets seemed to be in a pretty desperate position. Zhukov's inspection of the Mozhaisk defense line found huge gaps open to German assault which led to the general later stating that, 'all the approaches to Moscow were open'. From, the Soviet perspective it seemed that if the Germans attacked in strength they would easily capture the capital. Diplomatic missions and government staff had already been evacuated to Kuibyshev. Shops suffered from widespread looting, demolition charges were being set on key installations and Beria had just taken the opportunity to flee to the Caucasus claiming it was a 'visit'. Stalin seemed to consider leaving before his resolve stiffened. By October 18th he had decided to stay and declared Moscow a fortress.
What if Stalin had not stayed? Would Moscow be set ablaze to deny it to the Germans? What of the Winter 1941 counter-attack? Would the counter-attack have been as successful without access to OTL staging areas around Moscow( sheltered airfields etc) Could Stalin have kept the War going from Kuibyshev or elsewhere? Thoughts?