To what extent were the superpowers committed to détente?

In the period 1972-1979 the superpowers were reconciled to but never committed to détente, in the sense of a comprehensive relaxation of tensions. Crucially neither superpower intended détente as settling Cold War issues but an alternate means of each power consolidating their own strength. Whereas there was a perceptive commitment to arms controls, both continued to maintain their influence in global conflicts contravening each other’s interest. Although Brezhnev was greatly committed to soviet perception of détente, ultimately neither side was prepared to sacrifice international standing for the sake of relaxed tensions. It is primarily American who can be blamed for the breakdown in détente; as soon as it didn’t satify their objectives they abandoned the US soviet relationship completely. 

Answered by History tutor

3800 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

Should the October 1917 Russian Revolution be considered as a turning point?


What do I need to include in order to answer a 'how valuable' source question effectively?


How do I structure my A- level History essay?


‘Henry VII’s financial policies were the most important reason for the success of his rule.’ Assess the validity of this view.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences