When did Mikhail Gorbachev decide to withdraw from Afghanistan?
Mikhail Gorbachev decided to seek a withdrawal from Afghanistan by October 1985. This decision followed his becoming General Secretary of the Communist Party in March 1985.
Questions about Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who commanded the Soviet 40th Army during the final phase of the war?
General Boris Gromov commanded the 40th Army directly during the withdrawal process. He was the last general to walk across the Bridge of Friendship on February 15, which marked the completion of the army's departure.
What date were the Geneva Accords signed between Pakistan and Afghanistan?
The Geneva Accords were signed on the 14th of April 1988 between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The USSR and US acted as guarantors stating provisions for force withdrawal and mutual non-interference.
Why did the Soviet Union cut all aid to their allies after August 1991?
The Soviet Union cut all aid to their allies following the August 1991 coup. This decision severely impacted Hizb-i Watan and armed forces already weakened by fighting.
When did the mujahideen unseat Mohammad Najibullah from power?
The mujahideen failed to unseat Najibullah until spring 1992. They controlled several cities but could not storm Kabul until internal instability combined with the cessation of support allowed them to do so.