[D-fendr]

virtually not a shot was fired that actually helped in the collapse of the Soviet Union

Interesting, but very naive position.

Military strength, the threat and willingness to use it in war and proxy wars was the major factor stopping Soviet expansionism during the Cold War. We likely wouldn't have made it to the collapse without it.

[Dreddnafious]

i cant agree with you there. USSR was doomed because communism is a doomed system. Reagan definitely sped it up masterfully. He was a true statesman, but the fall was inevitable.

[marsh_of_mists]

Military strength, the threat and willingness to use it in war...was the major factor stopping Soviet expansionism

Yes, that's the point: a strong national defense. G'night.