The Unites States backed the Ethiopian government in its conflict with Somalia in the 1970s as part of:

Correct answer: D. a proxy war with the Soviet Union

A. an attempt to secure its natural resources
B. an attempt to support the new Soviet policy of glasnost
C. an attempt to prevent the Soviet Union from gaining a seaport in the Horn of Africa
D. a proxy war with the Soviet Union

Explanation

The Ogaden conflict reflected Cold War rivalry, with the United States supporting Ethiopia while the Soviet Union shifted toward Somalia. Such indirect competition between superpowers is described as a proxy war.

Written and checked by Samna Ashraf, contributorLast updated 16 September 2026

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