At the end of 1991, all the republics that formed the USSR declared independence. This marked the start of a period where they had to be recognized by each other, as well as by other countries around the world. This resulted in the creation of 15 independent states that became subjects of international relations. Many countries, made up of different ethnic groups, faced a difficult challenge in the fight against nationalism. Yugoslavia broke up into several states, some of which were engulfed in intense struggles due to various reasons, including religion and ethnicity. The withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan in 1988-1989 resulted in further civil war, while the Baltic countries severed ties with the foreign policy of the USSR. In general, the United States emerged as the only superpower, with its role in global affairs increasing significantly.