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/episode338The 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/ColdWarPodInstagram https://www.instagram.com/coldwarconversations/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/coldwarpod/Youtube https://youtube.com/@ColdWarConversationsLove history? Check out Into History at this link https://intohistory.com/coldwarpod00:00 Introduction to the Complexity of the Soviet-Afghan War00:26 Diving Deep into the Soviet-Afghan War with Nick Gearing01:38 Nick Gearing's Personal Journey and Initial Exposure to War Veterans03:13 Exploring the Intricacies and Origins of the Soviet-Afghan War16:17 The Soviet Military's Challenges and Adaptations in Afghanistan28:52 Evaluating the Soviet Strategy and Its Impact on the War32:51 Unveiling the Truth: The Soviet Union's Hidden War33:44 Gorbachev's Legacy and the Path to Peace34:27 Glasnost and the Afghan War: A Shift in Soviet Media37:19 The Impact of Western Weapons on the Afghan Battlefield39:31 The Unseen Side of War: Defections and Captivity44:24 The Brutal Reality of Conscript Life in the Soviet Army48:46 Drug Abuse Among Soviet Soldiers in Afghanistan50:47 The Endgame: Soviet Withdrawal and the Geneva Accords53:22 Najibullah's Struggle and the Fate of the Communist Government54:46 Revisiting the Afghan War: Memory and Media in Russia57:51 Exploring the Soviet-Afghan War Through Books, Films, and Music01:03:17 Closing Thoughts and AcknowledgmentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices