U.S.-Sovlet technology trade: new dilemmas

Abstract

Since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in December, the irksome question has been what the U.S. should and shouldn't trade with the Soviet Union. Phosphate exports were stopped almost immediately. Additional grain sales beyond the 8 million tons already being sent and contracted for through 1981 were banned. And, of course, all licenses for the export of high technology were suspended. Last week the Administration was putting the final touches on its new, stiffer guidelines for high-technology exports. But even as they were being written, doubts continued to surge through Washington whether the new rules would do any good. They were seen as only another reflection of Administration indecision, confusion, and misperception of purpose in dealing with the Soviet Union. Says Sen. Adlai E. Stevenson (D.-Ill.): In the eyes of the world the U.S. looks like fools. Princeton economist Robert Gilpin: Our allies feel they can't depend on the U.S. ...