Soviet invasion of Afghanistan

Definition

The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was a military campaign that began on December 24, 1979, when Soviet troops entered the country to support the communist government against insurgent groups. This invasion had significant implications for both the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, marking a turning point in Cold War dynamics and demonstrating the Brezhnev Doctrine's principle of intervening to maintain communist regimes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Soviet invasion was initially aimed at bolstering a struggling communist regime in Afghanistan but quickly escalated into a prolonged conflict.
2. The U.S. and its allies supported the Mujahideen through financial aid and weaponry, significantly contributing to the resistance against the Soviets.
3. The war became known as the 'Soviet Union's Vietnam' due to its unpopularity and the heavy toll it took on Soviet troops and resources.
4. The invasion led to widespread protests in various parts of Eastern Europe, as many citizens opposed Soviet military actions and called for greater independence.
5. Ultimately, the conflict strained Soviet resources and contributed to rising domestic discontent, playing a role in the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Review Questions

• How did the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan reflect the principles outlined in the Brezhnev Doctrine?
  • The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan directly reflected the Brezhnev Doctrine by showcasing the Soviet Union's commitment to intervening militarily in countries where communist regimes were threatened. This doctrine asserted that any attempt by a nation to reject communism could be seen as a threat to all socialist states. By sending troops into Afghanistan, the Soviets aimed to preserve a pro-communist government, reinforcing their influence in Eastern Europe and sending a clear message about their willingness to maintain control over satellite states.
• Analyze the international reactions to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and their impact on Cold War dynamics.
  • The international reactions to the Soviet invasion were largely negative, particularly from Western countries. The U.S. responded by increasing its support for the Mujahideen fighters, viewing them as freedom fighters opposing Soviet oppression. This shift marked a significant turning point in Cold War dynamics, as it ended a period of détente and escalated tensions between superpowers. The invasion not only unified various factions against Soviet expansionism but also intensified global arms races and led to boycotts of events like the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
• Evaluate how the outcome of the Soviet-Afghan War influenced political developments in Eastern Europe in the subsequent decade.
  • The outcome of the Soviet-Afghan War had profound effects on political developments in Eastern Europe. The costly conflict drained Soviet resources and morale, which emboldened reformist movements within satellite states. As public opposition grew against continued Soviet influence, many Eastern European nations began to push for greater autonomy and democratic reforms. The weakened position of the USSR ultimately contributed to significant political changes, including the fall of communist regimes across Eastern Europe around 1989, culminating in the end of the Cold War.

Related terms

Brezhnev Doctrine:

A policy articulated by Leonid Brezhnev that justified Soviet intervention in Eastern Europe to maintain communist rule and prevent the spread of capitalism.

Mujahideen: A group of insurgents in Afghanistan who fought against the Soviet forces and the Afghan communist government, receiving support from various countries, including the U.S.

Détente: The period of relaxed tensions and improved relations between the Soviet Union and the United States during the late 1960s and 1970s, which was significantly affected by the invasion.