The U.S. president who is often credited with abandoning the policy of détente is Ronald Reagan. Détente was a strategy aimed at easing the tensions of the Cold War, which was pursued by previous administrations, particularly those of Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.
Reagan’s approach to foreign policy marked a significant shift away from détente. He adopted a more aggressive stance towards the Soviet Union, famously labeling it the “Evil Empire”. Instead of seeking peaceful coexistence, Reagan pushed for a military buildup and supported anti-communist movements around the world.
This shift was characterized by a focus on increasing defense spending and a more confrontational attitude over various geopolitical issues. The Reagan administration believed that the best way to deal with the Soviet Union was to apply pressure rather than engage in negotiations or compromises.
Ultimately, Reagan’s policies and pressure strategies contributed to the end of the Cold War, but they marked a clear departure from the détente approach that emphasized diplomacy and negotiation.