Part 9/11:
In 1985, Mikhail Gorbachev ascended to power and began reevaluating Soviet policies in Afghanistan. The war cost the USSR not only in terms of human lives but also economically strained the state. Gorbachev recognized the need for a strategic withdrawal and proposed reforms to stabilize the situation. During this period, the Soviet Union transitioned leadership within the Afghan regime, replacing increasingly unpopular figures in a bid to secure a favorable exit.
Negotiations that led to the Geneva Accords resulted in an agreement for Soviet withdrawal and a pledge from both Pakistan and Afghanistan to refrain from interference. The final phase of the Soviet military's presence occurred from 1988 to 1989, marked by limited offensives aimed at securing a dignified retreat.