Soviet “decisiveness” will be contrasted with our restraint, which will no longer be labeled as prudent but increasingly as timid ī. The Soviet intervention is likely to stimulate calls for more immediate U.S. While it could become a Soviet Vietnam, the initial effects of the intervention are likely to be adverse for us for the following domestic and international reasons:Ī. We assumed the role in 1945, but the Iranian crisis has led to the collapse of the balance of power in Southwest Asia, and it could produce Soviet presence right down on the edge of the Arabian and Oman gulfs.Īccordingly, the Soviet intervention in Afghanistan poses for us an extremely grave challenge, both internationally and domestically. Historically, the British provided the barrier to that drive, and Afghanistan was their buffer state. If the Soviets succeed in Afghanistan, and the age-long dream of Moscow to have direct access to the Indian Ocean will have been fulfilled. Both Iran and Afghanistan are in turmoil, and Pakistan is both unstable internally and extremely apprehensive externally. This memorandum is meant merely to provide some stimulus to your thinking on this subject.Īs mentioned to you a week or so ago, we are now facing a regional crisis. In the meantime, you are receiving today’s SCC minutes on both subjects. I will be sending you separately a proposed agenda for the NSC meeting on Friday, and it will focus on both Afghanistan and Iran. Memo to President from Zbigniew Brzezinski Reflections on Soviet intervention in Afghanistan December 26, 1979 In the reports, Brzezinski explains implications of the invasion to American interests - both domestic and international - and possible actions Carter could take. National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brzezinski to President Jimmy Carter regarding the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
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