Continuing the theme of the Russian/Afghan war as a current day events parallel:/foreshadowing Sinaida (spelling?) the defector talking about Soviet leadership and invading a foreign country, telling its people what to do, plus Yousaf bringing up with the CIA group that their money goes to the hardcore religious fundamentalists.

Do you mean Ukraine? (Sorry if I'm projecting. The world kinda revolves around Ukraine for Russian families atm lol.)