The collapse of the Soviet Union can be attributed to a combination of internal and external factors. Internally, the Soviet economy had become stagnant and inefficient, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among its citizens. Additionally, the Communist Party's monopoly on power stifled political competition and hindered reform efforts. Externally, the United States' military buildup and support for anti-communist movements around the world placed significant pressure on the Soviet Union. The arms race and costly military interventions in Afghanistan drained Soviet resources and further weakened the economy. Furthermore, the Soviet Union faced challenges from within its satellite states, as Eastern European countries began to seek greater independence and overthrow their communist governments. Ultimately, these internal and external factors contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to the end of the Cold War.
