Which statement accurately describes the reason the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan?

Answer 1

The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in December 1979 primarily to support a communist government that was struggling to maintain control against a growing insurgency. The Afghan government, which had come to power in a coup in 1978, faced opposition from various factions, including Islamist groups. The Soviets aimed to prevent the spread of Islamic fundamentalism and maintain a communist ally in the region. The invasion was also part of a broader strategy to increase Soviet influence in Central Asia during the Cold War. The conflict, however, turned into a prolonged war that significantly drained Soviet resources and contributed to the eventual decline of the Soviet Union.