Answer:
Pressure on the Soviet economy: Reagan pursued a strategy of military buildup, increasing defense spending, and pushing for technological advancements like SDI. This put significant economic strain on the Soviet Union, which was already grappling with a stagnant economy and an arms race that it struggled to keep up with. The increased defense spending forced the Soviet Union to divert resources away from its economy and societal needs, exacerbating its economic weaknesses.
Technological competition and arms race: The announcement of the SDI, also known as "Star Wars," in 1983 was a pivotal moment. This initiative aimed to develop a missile defense system that could intercept and destroy incoming nuclear missiles. While the feasibility and effectiveness of SDI were debated, the mere prospect of such a system placed pressure on the Soviet Union. It forced them to devote more resources to their own defense and engage in an arms race with the United States, further straining their economy.
Negotiations and diplomacy: Reagan pursued a dual-track approach of both military strength and diplomatic engagement with the Soviet Union. While maintaining a firm stance against Soviet aggression, he also pursued arms control negotiations, including the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) signed in 1987. These negotiations helped build trust and reduce tensions between the two superpowers, ultimately leading to the reduction of nuclear arms on both sides.
Internal dynamics in the Soviet Union: The Soviet Union faced internal challenges, including economic stagnation, political reforms, and growing discontent among its population. The combination of Reagan's strategy, the arms race, and internal pressures within the Soviet Union contributed to a changing geopolitical landscape. The Soviet leadership, under Mikhail Gorbachev, recognized the need for reform and a new approach, leading to a shift in Soviet policies and a willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States.
It is important to note that while Reagan's Soviet strategy, including SDI, played a role in the end of the Cold War, it was a complex and multifaceted process influenced by various factors, both internal and external, within the United States and the Soviet Union. The end of the Cold War was a result of a combination of geopolitical, economic, and ideological factors, as well as the actions and decisions of multiple leaders and nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
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