The word “intervention” in relation to the entry of Soviet troops into Afghanistan is in itself inappropriate. Moscow wanted to help the Afghans, and it was precisely the increase in assistance that was the alternative, Boris Gromov, the former commander of the 40th Army of the USSR, said in a conversation with Gazeta.Ru.
“I would not use the word “intervention” at all. We entered there at the request of the legitimate authorities. Just like now in Syria. These were legitimate authorities, they asked us to send troops. There has always been an alternative, if we wanted to help Afghanistan, and the Soviet Union wanted to help. Continue to build up military-technical and economic assistance, train military specialists, engineers, and transport workers,” he said.
Gromov noted that many states tried to seize Afghan land, but only the USSR “differs from others in its thoughts and tasks.” According to the general, the Soviet Union from the first days showed friendliness and respect for the Afghan people.
The Afghan war lasted 10 years – from 1979 to 1989. The withdrawal of Soviet troops began on May 15, 1988. In the first three months, more than 50,000 servicemen left Afghanistan. On February 15, 1989, the last units of the Limited Contingent of Soviet Troops returned from Afghanistan. On February 15, Russia celebrates the Day of Remembrance for Russians who performed their official duties outside their native country.
Boris Gromov led the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan. He developed an operation plan for the withdrawal of troops through the Salang Pass, which ended without loss. On February 15, 1989, Gromov was the last of the servicemen of the Limited Contingent of Soviet Troops to leave Afghanistan.
