Final answer:
Moscow opposed the idea of a limited nuclear war and instead focused on nuclear deterrence, influenced by the doctrine of Mutually Assured Destruction. The Soviet Union's stance, along with treaties like the Limited Test Ban Treaty, aimed at reducing nuclear potential and avoiding the escalation to full nuclear conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) doctrine, which presupposes that a full-scale use of nuclear weapons by two opposing sides would cause the complete annihilation of both the attacker and the defender, was a key element of Cold War nuclear strategy. Both Moscow and Washington were aware that neither could use nuclear weapons without inviting their own destruction. Thus, the concept of a "limited nuclear war" was not widely supported, particularly by Moscow, which feared it could escalate into a full-blown nuclear exchange. Given the context, the correct answer is likely (b) Moscow opposed limited nuclear war, reducing the nuclear potential, indicating a stance against such escalation to preserve strategic stability.
During the Cuban Missile Crisis, for example, Moscow's decision to withdraw its missiles following a standoff with the United States was indicative of the Soviet Union's reluctance to engage in nuclear confrontation. In the aftermath, measures like the Limited Test Ban Treaty were signed to reduce the risks of atmospheric nuclear testing, showcasing efforts toward nuclear potential reduction and disarmament. Soviet strategies were focused on deterrence rather than actual combat use of nuclear weapons.