1) Ideology and political differences: The United States and the Soviet Union represented two opposing ideologies and political systems, with the US espousing democracy and capitalism and the Soviet Union embracing communism and authoritarianism. This fundamental ideological divide led to mutual suspicion and hostility between the two countries.
2) Geopolitical rivalry: Both countries were superpowers with global ambitions, competing for influence and control in various regions of the world. The US sought to contain the spread of communism and maintain its dominance, while the Soviet Union aimed to expand its sphere of influence and challenge American hegemony.
3) Arms race and nuclear deterrence: The intense competition between the US and the Soviet Union led to a rapid arms buildup, including the development of nuclear weapons and the adoption of mutually assured destruction (MAD) as a deterrent against full-scale war. This arms race strained the economies of both countries and contributed to the overall atmosphere of tension and distrust.
4) Proxy conflicts and Cold War alliances: The US and the Soviet Union engaged in indirect confrontations through proxy conflicts in various parts of the world, supporting opposing sides in regional wars and conflicts. This fueled the Cold War rivalry and increased the risk of direct confrontation.
5) Periods of détente and cooperation: Despite the intense rivalry, there were also periods of détente and cooperation between the US and the Soviet Union. Notable instances include the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT) agreements and the space race, which required a degree of collaboration between the two countries.
6) Domestic politics and public opinion: The policy toward the Soviet Union was also influenced by domestic politics in both countries. In the US, public opinion and political debates shaped the government's approach, with periods of hawkish and dovish stances toward the Soviet Union.
Overall, the US policy toward the Soviet Union was shaped by a complex combination of ideological, geopolitical, military, and domestic factors that evolved over time and fluctuated between periods of confrontation and cooperation.