I must have been reading the wrong news reports about the Russian time in Afghanistan....as somehow the use of poison gas on civilians does not seem an effective way to win their Hearts and Minds?
Bombing and strafing villages also seems to be an odd way to provide full employment for workers.
If the Russians were doing such a grand job of "Nation Building" why were they engaged in combat with such ferocity as they were by the Taliban?
For those who only know of Charlie Wilson via Tom Hanks.....it was Congressional Legislation that funded support for the Muji's that Wilson was able to get passed into Law that he deserves credit for doing.
He was a sleazy guy personally.....but at least he saw a need to support those who were actively fighting a hostile Communist takeover of their own Country.
One that had no respect for Islam or its followers.
That wonderful bridge was built to facilitate the logistical support of Russian forces.....and not for the betterment of the Afghan people.
In no way can the Russians be seen as being in Afghanistan except for a perceived benefit to the Russians....and their support of a Communist Government in Afghanistan.