Afghan history (1979-Present)

Soviet Invasion

Dec 1, 1979

Soviet Army invades and props up communist government.

Mujahadeen gains support

Mar 1, 1980

Babrak Karmal installed as ruler, backed by Soviet troops. But opposition intensifies with various mujahideen groups fighting Soviet forces. US, Pakistan, China, Iran and Saudi Arabia supply money and arms to the mujahideen. Millions are displaced by this fighting.

Red army quits

Apr 1, 1988

Afghanistan, USSR, the US and Pakistan sign peace accords and Soviet Union begins pulling out troops. Civil war continues as mujahideen push to overthrow Najibullah.