Re: Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan

From: Roderick and Ellen Robertson <rjremr_at_TWdenCbbiTFRYdDPzMMTZDLaxuooRp8I1o9BEC83Scq1INVXjplwWbBLt6CjvHGB4ZfdP>
Date: Thu, 19 Jan 2006 09:46:41 -0800

Historically, Russia (whether called "Imperial Russia" or "The Soviet Union" has had designs on central Asia including Afghanistan since before the time of Victoria. They have long considered it part of their plans to integrate Afghanistan (and India) into their empire (whatever form that empire takes).

The 'great game' that Kipling refers to in Kim (he did *not* originate the term, btw) was played out between the British and the Russians on the Plains and Mountains of Central Asia. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was just the latest move in the game. (it's also why Russia is fighting so hard in places like Chechnya and all the -stans).

RR
C'est par mon ordre et pour le bien de l'Etat que le porteur du présent a fait ce qu'il a fait.
- Richelieu