Are they interested in stability? The Soviet view of intervention

Abstract

Abstract The Soviet view of intervention is reflected both in Soviet literature and actual foreign policy. An adequate assessment of the Soviet view of intervention and its role in international relations must examine both Soviet declaratory and action policies. Soviet discussion of intervention, when viewed with a clear understanding of Soviet ideological jargon, reflects a belief that Soviet acts of intervention are justified and even proper according to international law. Interestingly, Soviet discussion of intervention also indicates that there exists a perceived linkage between the freedom of Soviet interventionist behavior and the specific state of the strategic balance. An examination of recent Soviet actions in Angola, the Horn of Africa, and Afghanistan indicates that the Soviet leadership may actually formulate foreign policy in the direction indicated by Soviet declaratory policy.