The answer is b. It opened up diplomatic relationships between the Soviets and the U.S.
This option is incorrect. Glasnost, introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the mid-1980s, was a policy aimed at increasing transparency and openness in government institutions and activities in the Soviet Union. It was part of a broader reform agenda that included perestroika (restructuring). Rather than closing diplomatic relationships, Glasnost helped to improve them by fostering a more open dialogue between the Soviet Union and the United States.
This option is correct. Glasnost played a significant role in easing tensions during the Cold War by promoting openness and transparency, which helped to build trust between the Soviet Union and the United States. This policy, along with perestroika, contributed to the end of the Cold War by encouraging more open communication and cooperation between the two superpowers.
This option is incorrect. Glasnost was not about territorial expansion; rather, it was about internal reform and improving international relations. The policy aimed to reduce the secrecy and authoritarian control that characterized the Soviet regime, which ultimately led to more openness and dialogue with other countries, including the United States.
This option is incorrect. While Glasnost and perestroika did lead to significant changes in the Soviet Union, including economic challenges and political shifts, the policy itself did not directly shut down the Soviet economy. Instead, it aimed to reform the system, although it did contribute to the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union as it exposed systemic issues and led to increased demands for change.