Michael Kilian’s article “Gorbachev’s failures with economy ended Cold War” (News, Nov. 19) reveals a simplistic and misleading analysis of the radical transformation that reshaped Central Europe, sank the Soviet ship, and led to the independence of the 15 Soviet republics. Indeed the collapsed economy played a significant role in the demise and ultimate fall of the USSR. But was it the principal cause? Not really. Of equal significance were social problems involving health, alcohol abuse, family disintegration, escalating crime, youth rebellion and social stratification engendered by Soviet Communism.
In addition the Marxist-Leninist political system molded by Kremlin apparatchiks failed to solve economic and social dilemmas. Politburo members prior to Gorbachev exhibited self-centered and questionable, if not corrupt, motives that contributed to a popular distrust toward politicians.
Whereas CIA analysts may justly discount the significance of the role played by Ronald Reagan to end the Cold War, they should not minimize that of Mikhail Gorbachev. As Secretary General of the Communist Party, Gorbachev distinguished himself as a leader of integrity, courage, and foresight to confront and confess openly the weaknesses of the Soviet system.
He stepped outside pompous Kremlin offices to converse with Soviet citizens in shops and factories. He ridiculed Soviet manufacturers for the production of faulty merchandise and the falsification of production reports. He sensed Central European animosity toward Soviet dominance in the region and perceived ominous consequences resulting from such feelings.
In sum, Gorbachev’s policies of perestroika, glasnost and democracy contributed more toward ending the Cold War than all other factors combined. Give Gorbachev the credit he deserves.
