Question

Gorbachev wanted to reduce the expenditure on arms. In the light of this statement, discuss why did he withdraw troops from Afghanistan?

Answer 1

1. Gorbachev wanted to reduce the expenditure on arms and ease the economic burden on the Soviet Union. In line with this goal, he decided to withdraw Soviet troops from Afghanistan in 1989. The war, which had begun in 1979, had become costly and unpopular, with heavy losses and no clear victory.
2. Gorbachev recognized that continuing the war would only worsen the economic crisis and damage the USSR’s international image. He believed in resolving conflicts through diplomacy, rather than military force, as part of his broader policy aimed at reducing Cold War tensions. The withdrawal from Afghanistan showed his commitment to a peaceful foreign policy and reducing military spending, which was essential for his domestic reforms.