The nationalities problem and the Soviet military (USAWC Military Studies Program paper)
by Terry L. Wagner, Army War College (U.S.)
Category: Soviet Union

There are significant changes taking place in the Soviet population which will alter the demographics of the Soviet Union. These changes will have a definite impact on the Soviet armed forces and will require Soviet leaders, both political and military, to rethink the future roles of the current nationalities in the armed forces. This paper examines past and current nationalities issues for the Soviet Army and explores the various problem areas that have been documented. It also briefly assesses future implications of the nationalities problem for both the Soviets and the West.