Kruglov, Sergei Nikiforovich

(1907–1977)

   As a member of the Communist Party apparatus, Kruglov took part in the ruthless purging of the Komsomol in the mid-1930s. In late 1938 he was laterally transferred into the NKVD and made deputy people commissar for personnel, probably at Lavrenty Beria’s behest. In the next 18 months, Kruglov efficiently purged the service. During World War II, Kruglov was moved through a series of posts, frequently serving as the security service representative with major military formations. He was twice decorated with the Order of Lenin. He was responsible for security matters at the Yalta and Potsdam conferences in 1945 and was made a Knight of the British Empire (KBE) for his questionable services to the British.

   From 1945 through 1953, Kruglov served as minister of internal affairs, with the rank of colonel general. Joseph Stalin promoted him to Communist Party Central Committee membership as a reward for his work. Immediately following Stalin’s death, Beria demoted Kruglov and took the position as chief of both the MVD and the MGB. In response, Kruglov conspired with Nikita Khrushchev and took part in the coup against Beria. He was rewarded with a promotion to head the MVD, a position he held until 1956. Khrushchev reportedly disliked and feared Kruglov and demoted him to a post in economic management. Kruglov retired in 1958 at age 51 on a generous pension.

   See also Serov, Ivan.