The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan began on December 24, 1979, when the Soviet Union deployed troops to support the communist government in Afghanistan against a growing insurgency. The invasion aimed to stabilize the Afghan government and maintain influence in the region during the Cold War. The conflict led to a decade-long war, with the Mujahideen, a group of Afghan resistance fighters, receiving support from various countries, including the United States. The invasion ultimately resulted in significant casualties and economic strain for the Soviet Union, contributing to its eventual dissolution in 1991.