Between Nations - The Soviet War in Afghanistan

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Why was Afghanistan of interest to Russia?
What changed in Afghanistan in 1978 that led to civil unrest?
Why did some call the war in Afghanistan a jihad or "holy war"?
The Soldiers of God, or the Mujahedeen, who fought against the Soviet-Afghan army, were mostly peasants. Where did they get their weapons?
Afghan President Taraki sought advice from Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev about what to do with Afghan Prime Minister Amin, who had authored the reforms that had caused turmoil. What did they decide to do? What happened as a result?
With what neighbor of Afghanistan did the U.S. become allies to help support the Mujahedeen? What was remarkable about this alliance?
According to Soviet journalist Artyom Borovik, what made the war "useless"?
What weakened the Mujahedeen army?
Though the U.S. sent money and supplies, they sent no troops to help the Mujahedeen. What do you think of this decision in light of the fact that the opposition had Soviet troops fighting for them? Is this good foreign policy?