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What if in the early days of the conflict the Soviets decide that elements of the divisions on the border only go inland about 90KM to set up a buffer zone.
And only send troops to defend the embassy and Presidential palace.
When the Afghan leadership demand more support, the Soviets tell them that they've done their side of the treaty of giving military support when called upon.
In the end the Soviets see Afghanistan as not worth the effort. How will this affect them in the long run?