Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

Definition

The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan was a military intervention that began in December 1979 when the Soviet Union sent troops to support the communist government in Afghanistan against insurgent groups. This event marked a significant escalation in Cold War tensions and influenced U.S. foreign policy, especially in the context of détente and relations with China, as the invasion prompted a reevaluation of strategies to counter Soviet expansionism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The invasion was initially justified by the Soviets as a means to support a friendly regime facing internal unrest, but it quickly turned into a protracted conflict.
2. The United States responded to the invasion by increasing military aid to Afghan insurgents (Mujahideen) and boycotting the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
3. The invasion led to significant international condemnation and contributed to the deterioration of U.S.-Soviet relations, marking the end of détente.
4. This conflict drained Soviet resources and contributed to domestic unrest within the USSR, ultimately playing a role in its collapse in 1991.
5. The war created a humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, leading to millions of refugees fleeing to neighboring countries and significant loss of life among both soldiers and civilians.

Review Questions

• How did the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan challenge the policies of détente between the United States and the Soviet Union?
  • The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan severely tested the détente policies that had been established between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. It shifted perceptions in Washington regarding Soviet intentions and expansionism, leading to fears that the USSR aimed to extend its influence further into Asia. This prompted a reassessment of American foreign policy, resulting in increased military aid to Afghan insurgents and a stronger stance against perceived Soviet aggression.
• Discuss the implications of U.S. support for the Mujahideen during the Soviet invasion and how this shaped future U.S.-Middle Eastern relations.
  • U.S. support for the Mujahideen during the Soviet invasion had significant implications for future U.S.-Middle Eastern relations. By backing these resistance fighters, the U.S. not only sought to counter Soviet influence but also inadvertently contributed to a complex web of alliances and animosities that would affect U.S. interests in the region for decades. The flow of weapons and resources helped establish factions that later evolved into groups with varying ideologies, contributing to ongoing instability and conflict in Afghanistan and beyond.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan influenced global politics in the late 20th century.
  • The outcomes of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan had profound effects on global politics, particularly during the late 20th century. The protracted conflict weakened the Soviet Union economically and politically, contributing to its eventual collapse. Additionally, it solidified U.S. resolve to confront Soviet power globally, marking a shift towards more aggressive strategies like arms buildups and supporting anti-communist movements worldwide. This conflict set a precedent for U.S. military involvement in similar geopolitical struggles, influencing foreign policy decisions well into the next century.

Related terms

Détente: A period of relaxed tensions and improved relations between the United States and the Soviet Union during the late 1960s and 1970s, characterized by arms control agreements and diplomatic engagement.

Mujahideen: Afghan resistance fighters who opposed the Soviet invasion, receiving support from various countries, including the United States, in their struggle against the Soviet-backed government.

Carter Doctrine:

A U.S. policy established by President Jimmy Carter in 1980 declaring that any attempt by outside forces to gain control of the Persian Gulf would be met with military force by the United States.