Historical Events tagged with "mujahideen"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Soviet Union Withdraws Troops from Afghanistan

February 15th, 1989 36 years ago

The Soviet Union officially announced the complete withdrawal of its armed forces from Afghanistan, marking the end of nearly a decade of military involvement. The withdrawal was the result of declining public support and a growing recognition of the conflict's complexities. On this day, the last Soviet soldier crossed the border back into the Soviet Union, concluding a costly engagement that had deeply affected both nations. The culmination of this withdrawal process was significant not only for Afghanistan but also for the broader geopolitical landscape of the Cold War.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Last Soviet Armoured Column Departs Kabul

February 2nd, 1989 36 years ago

On this significant day, the last Soviet armored column rolled out of Kabul, marking the end of a nearly decade-long military presence in Afghanistan. The withdrawal followed the Geneva Accords, wherein the Soviet Union agreed to pull its forces from Afghanistan. The departing troops faced significant challenges, including hostile conditions and lingering resistance from Afghan factions amidst a complex geopolitical backdrop. This act symbolized the winding down of Soviet involvement in the country and the intensifying conflict between various Afghan groups.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Closure of American Embassy in Kabul

January 30th, 1989 36 years ago

The closure of the American embassy in Kabul marked a significant point in U.S.-Afghan relations. With the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan in progress, the strained relations led to security concerns for the staff. The embassy had been operational throughout the Soviet-Afghan War but faced increasing threats. Diplomatic ties had weakened as the conflict evolved, prompting the decision on January 30 to cease operations.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Soviet Army Withdraws from Afghanistan

May 15th, 1988 36 years ago

The Soviet Army began withdrawing its 115,000 soldiers from Afghanistan in a significant military operation that marked the end of a prolonged conflict. Amid increasing guerrilla resistance and international pressure, the Soviet leadership decided to scale back its military presence in the country. This withdrawal, initiated under General Boris Gromov's command, was part of a larger Soviet shift in foreign policy as the Cold War tensions began to ease.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Soviet Forces Capture Kabul during Invasion

December 23rd, 1979 45 years ago

On December 23, 1979, Soviet Union forces entered Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, marking the beginning of a decade-long military conflict. The invasion was aimed at supporting the communist government of Afghanistan amid rising resistance from various factions, including the Mujahideen. The deployment involved thousands of troops and significant resources, reflecting the Soviet Union's determination to secure its influence in Central Asia. The action sparked international condemnation and set in motion a complex and protracted war that profoundly affected the region and beyond.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Carter Approves Secret Aid to Afghan Rebels

July 3rd, 1979 45 years ago

In July 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter signed a directive authorizing covert support for Afghan rebel factions battling the pro-Soviet government in Kabul. This decision was prompted by fears of Soviet expansion in the region, coinciding with the ongoing Soviet-Afghan conflict. The U.S. aimed to counter Soviet influence by providing military and financial assistance to various opposition groups, laying groundwork for a prolonged engagement in Afghanistan.

Continue Reading