Question

What was the result of Nixon's opening of diplomatic relations with China?

A. The Soviet Union and China went to war.
B. China became a democratic nation.
C. The United States was forced to reduce military presence in Japan.
D. The Soviet Union was forced to improve United States–Soviet relation

Answer 1

D. The Soviet Union was forced to improve United States–Soviet relation

Nixon opening diplomatic relations with China began with recognition of Communist China. In doing this, it demonstrated the US's willingness to ease Cold War tension which required the USSR to respond the same. The USSR viewed the US-China meetings as the US being willing to accept communism as a government/economic system that they could work with. Presidents following Nixon (Ford and Carter) would continue by opening discussions with the USSR.

Answer 2

The answer is d. After the fallout between China and Russia, the Chinese believed that by reestablishing relations with America, it would prevent the Russians from expanding their influence. Seeing this unfold, the Russians decided to improve their relations with the U.S.