In 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan. The Soviets did so for a number of reasons. They feared Islam as a threat, since communism insists on a lack of religion. The Soviets also desired a warm water port on the Indian Ocean; the Soviet Union had no seaports that were ice-free, year round.Dear Mr. Daly, Afghanistan is landlocked. Other than this nitpick, nice article!
I know that; there would have been further expansion.