Moscow and the Third World Under Gorbachev

Soviet policy toward the developing world has changed dramatically since Mikhail Gorbachev assumed power in 1985. This book explores the shape and scope of Moscow's "new thinking" in its Third World context— highlighted by the USSR's surprising withdrawal from Afghanistan in 1988. Other policies examined include putting pressure on allies such as Cuba and Vietnam to end their military involvement in Angola and Cambodia respectively; expanding relations with old adversaries such as China, South Korea, South Africa, and Israel; and pursuing closer ties to developed Third World countries while reducing support for weak states. After reviewing the foreign policy record Gorbachev inherited, the authors assess his economic and strategic priorities in the diplomatic arena and their impact on specific regions. Each regional chapter reviews past Soviet policy, examines the rationale for Gorbachev's present initiatives, and weighs future trends—including implications for U.S.-Soviet relations. Thoroughly updated through the winter of 1990, this book provides the most current analysis available of a vital and continuously evolving part of the world.