The Soviet-Afghan War lasted ten years between 1979-1989 and led to the deaths of between 500k and 2m Afghan civilians. I speak with Nick Geering a Russian history and language teacher. From his memories of the haunting sight of uniformed amputees in St Petersburg to the complex origins of the conflict, we explore the intricacies of a war that was both an accident and a tragedy. Our conversation traverses the murky politics that led to the Soviet invasion, the unpreparedness of the conscript-heavy Soviet army, and the brutal reality of life for soldiers caught in the mountainous terrain of Afghanistan. We also discuss the question of international support for the Mujahideen and the controversial impact of Western-supplied weaponry. The episode also shines a light on the deeply entrenched hierarchy within the Soviet military, harrowing drug abuse among troops, and the chilling treatment of prisoners of war on both sides. As we approach the subject of the Soviet withdrawal, we reflect on the war's enduring scars, the fate of the communist Afghan government, and how the conflict is remembered today in Russia. Video and photo extras here https://coldwarconversations.com/episode338 The fight to preserve Cold War history continues and viaa simple monthly donation, you will give me the ammunition to continue to preserve Cold War history. You’ll become part of our community, get ad-free episodes, and get a sought-after CWC coaster as a thank you and you’ll bask in the warm glow of knowing you are helping to preserve Cold War history. Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/ If a monthly contribution is not your cup of tea, we welcome one-off donations via the same link.   Find the ideal gift for the Cold War enthusiast in your life! Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/store/ Follow us on Twitter https://twitter.com/ColdWarPod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/ Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversations Love history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod 00:00 Introduction to the Complexity of the Soviet-Afghan War 00:26 Diving Deep into the Soviet-Afghan War with Nick Gearing 01:38 Nick Gearing's Personal Journey and Initial Exposure to War Veterans 03:13 Exploring the Intricacies and Origins of the Soviet-Afghan War 16:17 The Soviet Military's Challenges and Adaptations in Afghanistan 28:52 Evaluating the Soviet Strategy and Its Impact on the War 32:51 Unveiling the Truth: The Soviet Union's Hidden War 33:44 Gorbachev's Legacy and the Path to Peace 34:27 Glasnost and the Afghan War: A Shift in Soviet Media 37:19 The Impact of Western Weapons on the Afghan Battlefield 39:31 The Unseen Side of War: Defections and Captivity 44:24 The Brutal Reality of Conscript Life in the Soviet Army 48:46 Drug Abuse Among Soviet Soldiers in Afghanistan 50:47 The Endgame: Soviet Withdrawal and the Geneva Accords 53:22 Najibullah's Struggle and the Fate of the Communist Government 54:46 Revisiting the Afghan War: Memory and Media in Russia 57:51 Exploring the Soviet-Afghan War Through Books, Films, and Music 01:03:17 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices