What were the global implications of the Afghan-Soviet War?

The Afghan-Soviet War had significant global implications, including the end of détente, the rise of Islamic extremism, and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The Afghan-Soviet War marked the end of détente, a period of relaxed tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 was seen as a direct threat to the West, particularly as it was perceived as an attempt to gain control over the oil-rich Persian Gulf. This led to a renewal of the Cold War tensions, with the US leading a boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics and increasing its military spending. The war also led to a shift in the balance of power in the Middle East, with the US providing support to the Afghan Mujahideen, which further strained US-Soviet relations.

The war also played a significant role in the rise of Islamic extremism. The Mujahideen, who were fighting against the Soviet forces, received support from various countries, including the US, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. This support included financial aid, weapons, and training. The war served as a rallying point for Muslims around the world, with many travelling to Afghanistan to join the fight against the Soviets. This led to the creation of a network of Islamic militants, many of whom would later become involved in terrorist activities. The war also led to a rise in anti-Western sentiment in the Muslim world, as the US was seen as supporting a war against a Muslim country.

Finally, the Afghan-Soviet War had a significant impact on the Soviet Union itself. The war was a major drain on the Soviet economy, with the cost of the war estimated to be in the billions of dollars. The war also led to a significant loss of life, with estimates suggesting that over 15,000 Soviet soldiers were killed. The war also led to a loss of faith in the Soviet government, both at home and abroad, and is often cited as one of the factors that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. The war also had a significant impact on Afghanistan itself, leading to a period of instability and conflict that continues to this day.