Afghanistan Flashcards
Why did the Soviet Union see Afghanistan as part of its sphere of influence?
It bordered the Soviet union so president Taraki’s government had to be communist and Soviet backed.
Why did Soviet troops invade Afghanistan?
President Taraki was assassinated during civil war and replaced by Hafizullah Amin. The USSR saw this as a threat so invaded.
When did Soviet troops invade Afghanistan?
December 1979
Who replaced Amin?
Barbrak Karmal
What did Brezhnev believe about the USA’s response to the invasion?
He believed wrongly that the president: Jimmy Carter would not object the invasion.
Why was Carter worried?
The USA worried that the USSR would gain influence in the middle east, it could lead to Soviet influence of Iran, it could mean that the USA may not be able to get oil from the middle east which was key for its prosperity.
What was the Carter doctrine?
It was a policy put in place by president Carter.
What was involved in the Carter doctrine?
He threatened to use force if the USSR attempted to take control of the Persian Gulf, ended trade between the two powers, the US and its allies provided assistance to the Mujahideen (rebels).
What were the consequences of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan?
1980 Olympic games boycott, the Carter doctrine, end of salt 2 agreements.
How did the Salt 2 agreements end?
In 1980, the USA broke off diplomatic relations with the USSR and the US senate refused to sign SALT 2. This led to the USA beginning to build up its nuclear weapons including cruise and pershing missiles to be deployed in Europe
How did the Soviets respond to the end of SALT 2?
they developed their own medium range missile called the SS20 missile.
