The attitude of the Soviet Union on the problem of Western Sahara under the Spanish occupation (1973-1976)

Abstract

This study analyzes the position of the Soviet Union regarding the Western Sahara problem during the period 1973-1976, a vacillating position as a result of self-interested decisions based on its own interests that established it in the region and being considered one of the active forces in the process of the Western Sahara conflict. The study sheds light on the role played by the Soviet Union in This problem appeared from its emergence and the establishment of the military wing represented by itbeginning with the emergence of the problem and the establishment of the military wing represented by the Polisario Front, which took upon itself The independence of the territory of Western Sahara from the State of Morocco, as well as the position of the Soviet Union in the United Nations, a vote in favor of the Polisario Front in the issue of self-determination, an affirmation of the right of peoples to self-determination, and recognition of their full freedom to choose their political and economic status In addition to the position of the Soviet Union towards the Spanish occupation and its repeated demands to withdraw Spanish forces from Western Sahara and let the Saharawi people decide their fate and denounce the policy of the occupation. Nevertheless, the political caution that the Soviet Union followed towards the problem is not hidden from everyone because of the complex nature of relations with the countries of the region, especially trade relations with the parties to the conflict were Algeria, Morocco and Libya