Which country invaded Afghanistan in 1979?

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In 1979, Afghanistan was invaded by the Soviet Union, which is often referred to as Russia today. This invasion was part of a broader strategy during the Cold War aimed at extending Soviet influence in the region and supporting the communist government that had taken power in Afghanistan. The Soviet military engaged in a conflict that lasted nearly a decade, resulting in significant geopolitical ramifications, including the eventual withdrawal of Soviet forces in 1989 and contributing to instability in the region.

The invasion was met with considerable resistance from various Afghan groups, known as the Mujahideen, who received support from multiple countries, including the United States, which sought to counter Soviet expansion. This conflict had lasting impacts on Afghanistan, the Soviet Union, and global politics, affecting relations and conflicts in the ensuing decades.