“Brezhnev’s foreign policy was successful in reducing Cold War tensions in Europe.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

The question requires that candidates consider the merits or otherwise of the statement that Brezhnev reduced Cold War tensions in Europe. Some may argue that the Brezhnev Doctrine 1968 increased tensions in Europe. As a consequence of détente and better relations with the US, Brezhnev was also willing to make concessions in Europe in the 1970s (detail on détente, such as SALT 1, should be made relevant to Europe). Brezhnev signed the Treaty of Moscow 1970 and the Helsinki Accords 1975, both significantly reduced Cold War tensions in Europe. Others may argue that Brezhnev did not initiate policies that reduced tensions but accepted overtures from others that led to a reduction in tensions. There may be reference here to Brandt’s Ostpolitik. Others may argue that tensions remained, with continued criticism of the Soviet Union’s record on human rights and the issue of deploying new nuclear weapons (SS-20s) in Europe. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.