Détente Failure Causes

Détente represented a period of eased Cold War tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the 1970s. Its eventual failure stemmed from several factors.

Proxy Wars' Impact on Détente

The most significant cause for the breakdown of détente was the continuation and escalation ofproxy wars. These conflicts saw the superpowers backing opposing sides in regional disputes, which significantly increased mutual suspicion and rivalry.

• Examples include conflicts like the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 and interventions in Africa and Latin America.
• These actions directly undermined the policy of détente by intensifying confrontation.

Analysis of Other Factors

• Domestic developments: Internal issues within the US or USSR were less direct causes compared to external conflicts.
• Resource scarcity: While economic factors influenced policies, they were not the primary trigger for détente's collapse.
• Technological supremacy: The ongoing arms race and pursuit of military advantage contributed to tension but weren't the direct cause of détente failing.

Consequently, proxy wars stand out as the critical factor leading to the end of the US-Soviet détente period.