Dictator in terminal receiving head of state (6)

I believe the answer is:

despot

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'dictator' is the definition.
(I know that despot is a type of dictator)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for despot that I've seen before include "Cruel and oppressive ruler" , "Tyrant, oppressor" , "Tyrannical dictator" , "monster?" , "has first of shocks in store" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

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