Notes on the Afghanistan War and Its Global Implications

Historical Background

• USSR and Afghanistan Relations
  • Russia first recognized Afghanistan in 199, Afghanistan recognized Soviet Russia in 1921
  • Throughout the 20th century, relations were strong, with the USSR as Afghanistan's main economic partner.
  • In the 1970s, Afghanistan was a liberal republic under President Da Khan, maintaining a close relationship with the USSR.

The Communist Coup

• April 27, 1978: The People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan, led by N. Muhammed Taraki, seized power in a coup.
• Soviet Reaction: Initially displeased, but eventually signed a treaty with the new regime in December 1978.

Reforms and Backlash

• Agrarian and educational reforms were poorly received, leading to resistance, particularly due to compulsory education for girls.
• 1979 Herat Uprising: Led by Captain Ismael Khan; significant opposition resulting in 30,000 deaths.

Soviet Military Involvement

• Early 1979: Taraki requested Soviet military aid, leading to the formation of the "Muslim Battalion".
• US and Pakistan Involvement: By summer 1979, the US and Pakistan were covertly aiding the Mujahideen.

Change in Leadership and Escalation

• September 1979: Amin suffocated Taraki, seized power, worsening the situation.
• December 1979: Soviet leaders decided to eliminate Amin, fearing his instability.

Soviet Invasion

• December 27-28, 1979: 100,000 Red Army soldiers invaded Afghanistan, installing Babrak Karmal as leader.
• Global Reaction: US President Carter condemned the invasion, and the US boycotted the 1980 Moscow Olympics.

US and Mujahideen Support

• Operation Cyclone: CIA's program to arm the Mujahideen, primarily through the Pakistani ISI.
• Resistance Groups: Split into seven political groups, largely receiving support from the US and Saudi Arabia.

Escalation of Conflict

• 1980s: Increased global Muslim involvement and support for the Mujahideen.
• Soviet Public Awareness: Gradually realized the war's disastrous outcomes.

Soviet Withdrawal

• Gorbachev's Reforms: Aimed to end the war; perestroika improved public discourse.
• Stinger Missiles: US-supplied missiles critically damaged Soviet air capabilities.
• 1988 Geneva Accords: Official negotiations for Soviet withdrawal were concluded.

Aftermath

• Casualties: Over 1.2 million Afghan deaths, 15,000 Soviet deaths, and 6 million refugees.
• Long-term Effects: Afghanistan remains unstable; the war's legacy influenced future conflicts.

Conclusion

• The Soviet-Afghan War was a turning point with significant global implications, particularly influencing US-Soviet relations and setting the stage for future geopolitical dynamics.