The Soviet-Afghan War took place from 1979 to 1989, when the Soviet Union intervened in Afghanistan to support the communist government against insurgent groups. The conflict began after the Soviet Union deployed troops to maintain control, leading to a prolonged and brutal war against various Afghan resistance fighters, known as the Mujahideen. The war resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Afghanistan, as well as international condemnation of the Soviet Union's actions. The United States and other countries provided support to the Mujahideen, contributing to the eventual withdrawal of Soviet forces in 1989, which marked a significant moment in the Cold War.