The tension in Europe between the United States and Soviet Union following World War II was escalated with Cuba's involvement because

Answer 1

Cuba's involvement in the Cold War escalated the tension in Europe between the United States and the Soviet Union due to several reasons.

Firstly, Cuba became a communist country under the leadership of Fidel Castro in 1959. This development alarmed the United States as it was the first communist regime in the Western Hemisphere and was seen as a direct threat to American interests in the region. The spread of communism in Cuba was viewed as an extension of the Soviet Union's influence, leading to increased concern and tension between the two superpowers.

Secondly, Cuba's proximity to the United States made it a strategic location for the Soviet Union to deploy its military assets, including nuclear weapons. In 1962, the Cuban Missile Crisis occurred when the United States discovered Soviet missiles in Cuba, capable of reaching major American cities. This event brought the superpowers to the brink of nuclear war, intensifying the already-existing tensions in Europe.

Thirdly, Cuba provided support to communist movements and governments across the world. The Soviet Union used Cuba as a base to support and train communist insurgents in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, further fueling the existing tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. This support of revolutionary movements threatened American interests and influence, leading to increased concern and hostility between the two powers.

Overall, Cuba's involvement in the Cold War escalated tensions in Europe between the United States and the Soviet Union due to its communist regime, its strategic location, and its support of global communism.