Discuss the effects of the Russo-Polish War on the USSR's international relations.

The Russo-Polish War significantly strained the USSR's international relations, particularly with Western powers and neighbouring states.

The Russo-Polish War, fought from 1919 to 1921, was a significant event that had profound effects on the international relations of the newly formed Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). The war was essentially a territorial dispute between the USSR and the Second Polish Republic, both of which were trying to define their borders in the aftermath of the First World War and the Russian Revolution. The war ended with the Treaty of Riga, which left a lasting impact on the USSR's international relations.

The war strained the USSR's relations with Western powers. The Western Allies, particularly Britain and France, were alarmed by the spread of Bolshevism and the Red Army's initial successes in the war. They provided Poland with military aid and pressured other countries to do the same. This intervention was seen by the USSR as an act of aggression and a threat to its existence, leading to a deep mistrust of the West that would last for decades. The war also led to the isolation of the USSR, as many countries refused to recognise it due to its aggressive expansionist policies.

The Russo-Polish War also had a significant impact on the USSR's relations with its neighbours. The war resulted in significant territorial changes, with the USSR losing large parts of Belarus and Ukraine to Poland. This led to tensions with these countries, which felt that their territorial integrity had been violated. The war also created a sense of insecurity among other neighbouring states, who feared that they could be the next targets of Soviet expansionism.

Furthermore, the war had a profound effect on the USSR's relations with other socialist and communist movements around the world. The defeat of the Red Army was a major setback for the international communist movement, which had hoped that the USSR would be able to spread the revolution to other countries. The war also exposed the limitations of the USSR's military power, which undermined its credibility as a leader of the global communist movement.

In conclusion, the Russo-Polish War had a significant impact on the USSR's international relations. It strained relations with Western powers and neighbouring states, led to the isolation of the USSR, and undermined its credibility as a leader of the global communist movement. These effects would have long-lasting implications for the USSR's foreign policy and its role in international politics.