The Soviet Union experienced an economic slow down during the later years of the Cold War. This was in large part caused by?

The economic slowdown in the Soviet Union during the later years of the Cold War was largely caused by systemic inefficiencies within its centrally planned economy, which hindered innovation and productivity. Additionally, heavy military spending and the arms race with the West diverted resources away from consumer goods and infrastructure. The lack of economic reforms and the inability to adapt to global market changes further exacerbated the situation, leading to stagnation and eventual collapse.