What was a stated effect of Gorbachev's reforms with regard to the arms race?

• A. End the arms race by signing arms reduction agreements
• B. Maintain the arms race with more missiles
• C. End all arms control by leaving treaties
• D. Increase Soviet military expenditure

Answer: (A)

Gorbachev’s reforms introduced a new approach to international relations, focusing on openness, reform at home, and a willingness to negotiate with the West. A stated aim of this shift was to slow and eventually halt the arms race by reaching arms-control agreements with the United States. This is shown by steps like the INF Treaty of 1987, which eliminated an entire class of missiles and signaled a move away from escalating buildup toward cooperative limits. By rethinking how security could be achieved, the reforms prioritized reducing tensions through negotiation and cooperation rather than expanding weapons—so the intended effect is to end the arms race through arms reduction agreements.