Question

what diplomatic policy by gorbachev ensured the soviet union would fall?

a. he spent even more money on the soviet military, which led to its fall.
b. he opened up the nation to more democratic ideas and would not stop them from spreading.
c. he pushed for less nuclear weapons and the u.s. took the nation over.
d. he closed down trade with non-communist nations, which crippled the soviet economy.

Explanation:

Analyze the question and options

The question asks which diplomatic policy by Mikhail Gorbachev ensured the fall of the Soviet Union. Let's evaluate the options based on historical facts.

Evaluate Option A

Using the Mikhail Gorbachev Reforms knowledge point
Gorbachev actually sought to reduce military spending to fund domestic economic reforms (Perestroika), making this option historically inaccurate.

Evaluate Option B

Using the Glasnost knowledge point
Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost (openness) and political democratization allowed free discussion and criticism. Crucially, his diplomatic shift (often called the "Sinatra Doctrine") meant the Soviet Union would no longer intervene militarily to stop democratic movements in Eastern European satellite states, leading directly to the collapse of the Soviet bloc.

Evaluate Option C

Using the Mikhail Gorbachev Reforms knowledge point
While Gorbachev signed disarmament treaties like the INF Treaty, the United States did not take over the Soviet Union.

Evaluate Option D

Using the Mikhail Gorbachev Reforms knowledge point
Gorbachev sought to increase, not close down, trade and economic integration with Western and non-communist nations.

Answer:

• a. He spent even more money on the Soviet military, which led to its fall.
• b. He opened up the nation to more democratic ideas and would not stop them from spreading. (Correct answer)
• c. He pushed for less nuclear weapons and the U.S. took the nation over.
• d. He closed down trade with non-communist nations, which crippled the Soviet economy.