On what issues could the USSR and the Western Allies not agree at the Yalta and Potsdam conference in 1945?

3 answers

Some of the key issues on which the USSR and the Western Allies could not agree at the Yalta and Potsdam conferences in 1945 include:

1. Reparations: The distribution of reparations from Germany and other Axis powers was a major point of contention. The USSR sought significant reparations to help rebuild its war-torn economy, while the Western Allies were concerned that excessive reparations could hinder Germany's post-war recovery and potentially destabilize Europe.

2. Eastern Europe: The future of Eastern Europe, specifically the establishment of Soviet-dominated governments in countries like Poland, Romania, and Hungary, was a contentious issue. The Western Allies were concerned about Soviet influence and control in Eastern Europe, while the USSR sought to create a buffer zone of friendly, communist states as a means of security.

3. Poland: The issue of Poland's post-war borders and government was a major sticking point. The USSR wanted to maintain control over Poland and establish a pro-Soviet government, while the Western Allies pushed for free and fair elections to determine Poland's future.

4. Germany: The partitioning and future occupation of Germany was another divisive issue. The USSR pushed for harsher measures against Germany to prevent future aggression, while the Western Allies favored a more lenient approach to help Germany recover economically and politically.

5. The establishment of the United Nations: While the creation of the United Nations was agreed upon at both conferences, there were disagreements over the structure and functions of the organization. The USSR sought a more powerful role for itself within the UN, while the Western Allies were concerned about Soviet influence and dominance.
Shorten the answers
1. Reparations: The USSR wanted significant reparations from Germany and other Axis powers, while the Western Allies were concerned about the impact on Germany's post-war recovery.

2. Eastern Europe: The USSR sought to establish Soviet-dominated governments in Eastern Europe as a buffer zone, while the Western Allies were concerned about Soviet influence and control.

3. Poland: The USSR wanted to maintain control over Poland and establish a pro-Soviet government, while the Western Allies pushed for free and fair elections.

4. Germany: The USSR wanted harsher measures against Germany, while the Western Allies favored a more lenient approach to help Germany recover.

5. United Nations: Disagreements arose over the structure and functions of the United Nations, with the USSR seeking a more powerful role and the Western Allies concerned about Soviet influence.