Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

What major event in Iran in 1979 worried the USSR?

The Islamic Revolution in Iran overthrew the Shah and created an Islamic fundamentalist government.

Why did the USSR fear the spread of Islamic fundamentalism in 1979?

Because many Muslims lived within the USSR, so they feared unrest spreading across their borders.

Why was Afghanistan important to the USSR before 1979?

The USSR wanted a pro-Soviet government in Afghanistan to protect its regional interests.

What happened in Afghanistan in1978?

In April 1978, a pro-Soviet government took control and received economic support from Moscow.

What happened in Afghanistan in September 1979?

In September 1979, Hafizullah Amin led a coup and overthrew the pro-Soviet government.

How did the USSR initially respond to Amin’s takeover in 1979?

At first, Moscow supported Amin after his September 1979 coup.

Why did Amin become a problem for the USSR in 1979?

He became unpopular and faced opposition from pro-Muslim factions trying to overthrow him.

What caused Brezhnev to decide to invade Afghanistan?

Rumours that Amin was seeking support from the USA in 1979.

When did the USSR invade Afghanistan?

On 24th December 1979, the USSR invaded Afghanistan.

What reason did the USSR give for invading Afghanistan?

They claimed it was to support Hafizullah Amin’s government.

What actually happened to Amin after the Soviet invasion?

He was assassinated on 27th December 1979.

Who replaced Amin after his death in 1979?

Babrak Kamal, a pro-Soviet leader, took control.

How long did the USSR remain in Afghanistan?

For almost 10 years (1979–1989), fighting opposition groups.

How did the USA react to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan?

The USA saw it as the spread of communism and worked to resist it indirectly.

Who were the Mujahedeen and how were they supported?

Muslim guerrilla fighters trained, armed, and funded by the USA with billions of dollars during the 1980s.

What were the human and financial costs for the USSR?

Around $8 billion per year, 15,000 Soviet troops killed, and 1.5 million (afghanistan) civilian deaths.

What was the Carter Doctrine?

In 1980, the USA declared it would use force to defend its interests in the Persian Gulf.

What actions did the USA take under the Carter Doctrine?

Economic sanctions including stopping grain exports and banning computer sales to the USSR, and funding the Mujahedeen.

How did the invasion affect détente and SALT II?

In 1979–1980, Carter withdrew from SALT II, increased military spending, and ended détente (start of Second Cold War).

What happened during the 1980 Moscow Olympics?

In 1980, the USA led a boycott by over 60 countries protesting the invasion.

How did Britain respond to the 1980 Olympic boycott?

The UK encouraged athletes not to attend but did not ban them.

Why was the 1980 Olympic boycott significant?

It showed US global influence, angered the USSR, and worsened Cold War tensions.

What happened at the Los Angeles Olympics?

In 1984, the USSR led a boycott with 15 communist countries and organised the Friendship Games.