You might find a USPS information line, call them, and ask them your question. They should have the actual skinny on what happens to your particular scenario on the US side.
Remember that Aliexpress already has your money as an escrow agent, and they are the final arbitrator as to whether you get a refund if you and the seller don't reach an agreement. They are fair in resolving disputes, in my experience, once you get a real person involved. The initial rulings are clearly automated and designed to make sure you and the seller have jumped through the required hoops first. I do not think they will be impressed with your plan as a valid excuse for a refund, unless the seller agrees. Also, don't be surprised if the return shipping cost exceeds the cost of the item if it actually is returned or equals the cost of the item if it's destroyed in lieu of return shipping approval -- in which case you also don't get a refund.