Blowback S4 Episode 3 - "The Trap"
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Nov 22, 2023 The hosts discuss US aid to Afghanistan, the Soviet invasion, Al-Kifa Afghan Refugee Center's role in recruiting for the jihad, Soviet military strategy and atrocities, and the massive budget of Operation Cyclone.
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The Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
- On Christmas Eve 1979, Soviet interpreter Andrei Gresha was frying potatoes in Kabul when the Soviet invasion began.
- Soviet troops stormed Amin's palace, amidst confusion and friendly fire, ultimately killing Amin and installing Babrak Karmal as the new president.
Insufficient Troop Deployment
- The Soviet Union deployed around 80,000 soldiers into Afghanistan, aiming to secure major cities and roads.
- However, this troop level was deemed insufficient by military experts, who estimated 30-35 divisions were needed to stabilize the situation.
Kabul After the Invasion
- The day after the invasion, Kabul appeared surprisingly normal, with boys selling cigarettes and people celebrating Amin's overthrow.
- Soviet troops were greeted with flowers by some, while others advised them to leave quickly.