What was the political goal of the Soviet Union following the end of WWII?

Russia-viewed most of Europe as territory it had won in a hard fight and also as a buffer between it and the capitalistic world. It wanted to turn Germany into an agrarian state.

US-wanted a free market and capitalism and for Germany to be rebuilt.

Thank you!!

The Soviet Union had several political goals following the end of World War II. One of the primary goals was to ensure the security of the Soviet Union and maintain its influence over Eastern Europe. To understand this, one can examine various historical sources such as books, articles, and primary documents. Here's a step-by-step process to get a comprehensive answer:

1. Start by searching for reliable sources that discuss the Soviet Union's political goals after World War II. Academic journals, books written by historians, and reputable news outlets are good places to start.

2. Look for sources that specifically focus on the post-war period, as this will provide the most relevant information. The end of World War II marked a significant turning point in international relations and the establishment of the Cold War.

3. Pay attention to primary sources, such as speeches, official documents, and diplomatic correspondence, as they can reveal the intentions and objectives of the Soviet Union's leadership. Archives, governmental websites, and historical collections often provide access to such primary sources.

4. Read multiple sources to get a well-rounded understanding of the topic. This helps to avoid bias and enables you to compare different viewpoints and interpretations.

5. Identify recurring themes and patterns in the sources. Look for references to Soviet security concerns, the desire to establish buffer states around the Soviet Union, and the aim to spread communism and undermine the influence of the United States and its Western allies.

6. Analyze the historical context surrounding the Soviet Union's actions. Consider factors such as Stalin's leadership, the ideological rivalry between communism and capitalism, and the emerging bipolar world order.

By going through this process, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the political goals of the Soviet Union following the end of World War II.