United States-Russia Relations Quiz: Explore Diplomatic Dynamics

Explanation
The correct answer is Duma. The Duma is the name of Russia's parliament and is equivalent to America's Congress. It is the lower house of the Federal Assembly of Russia and is responsible for passing laws and representing the interests of the Russian people. The Duma consists of elected representatives from various political parties and plays a crucial role in the legislative process in Russia.

Explanation
The correct answer is Nuclear Arms Reduction because the New START treaty is specifically focused on reducing the number of nuclear weapons possessed by the United States and Russia. It is an agreement between these two countries to limit their strategic nuclear arsenals and establish verification procedures to ensure compliance. The treaty aims to promote stability and reduce the risk of nuclear conflict between the two nations.

Explanation
The correct answer is 1972 because the Anti Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty was indeed signed in that year. The ABM Treaty was an arms control agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union, aimed at limiting the development and deployment of anti-ballistic missile systems. It was signed on May 26, 1972, and remained in effect until 2002 when the United States withdrew from the treaty. The treaty was an important step in reducing the risk of nuclear war between the two superpowers during the Cold War era.

Explanation
Russia follows a state capitalist economic system. In this system, the state plays a significant role in controlling and owning major industries and resources. The government has a strong influence on economic decision-making, and state-owned enterprises dominate various sectors of the economy. While there are elements of socialism and market capitalism present, the overall structure and control exerted by the state align more closely with the concept of state capitalism.

Explanation
The term "Dragon Bear alliance" is used in the context of China and Russia. This alliance refers to the close diplomatic and strategic relationship between these two countries. Both China and Russia are major global powers and have aligned their interests in various areas such as politics, economy, and military cooperation. This alliance is seen as a counterbalance to the influence of the United States and Europe in the international arena.

Explanation
Russia objects to NATO's eastward extension because it sees it as a threat to its security and influence in the region. Russia views NATO's expansion into former Soviet states as encroachment on its sphere of influence and a potential military threat. It believes that this expansion undermines its national security and destabilizes the balance of power in Europe. Russia has expressed concerns about NATO's increased presence near its borders and has taken actions to counteract this perceived threat.

Explanation
The Helsinki Final Act led to the recognition of Soviet domination in eastern Europe. This act was a diplomatic agreement signed in 1975 by 35 countries, including the United States and the Soviet Union. It aimed to improve relations between the East and West during the Cold War. One of the key provisions of the Helsinki Final Act was the recognition of the post-World War II borders in Europe, which effectively legitimized the Soviet Union's control over Eastern Europe.

Explanation
The Cuban missile crisis happened in 1962. This was a major confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. It occurred when the Soviet Union placed nuclear missiles in Cuba, which posed a direct threat to the United States. The crisis lasted for thirteen days and brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. Eventually, a negotiated settlement was reached, with the Soviet Union agreeing to remove the missiles in exchange for a US promise not to invade Cuba.

Explanation
The correct answer is 1967 to 1979. The detente phase of the Cold War refers to a period of improved relations and reduced tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. It began in the late 1960s and lasted until the late 1970s. This period was characterized by diplomatic negotiations, arms control agreements, and cultural exchanges between the two superpowers. Notable events during this time include the signing of the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) agreements and the Helsinki Accords.

Explanation
In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea. This event occurred after political unrest and protests in Ukraine, leading to the ousting of Ukraine's president. Russia took advantage of the situation and deployed its military forces to Crimea, eventually holding a controversial referendum in which the majority of Crimean citizens voted to join Russia. This annexation was widely condemned by the international community, leading to sanctions against Russia and ongoing tensions in the region.