ABSTRACT
Mikhail Gorbachev's reformism had given historic impetus to the country's development, but the dynamic energy had gradually dissipated, and it was impossible for him to win in a confrontation with the darker social forces whose resistance and revolt he himself had provoked. Gorbachev had been irritated by the fact that Genscher had made reconnaissance trips to Kiev and Alma-Ata without once passing through Moscow, if only to observe the formalities. Despite Gorbachev's doubts, he was finally persuaded that the importance of the event not only justified but demanded a festive atmosphere. The success of the economic treaty gave Gorbachev further encouragement to launch the political offensive he had planned for the session of the Supreme Soviet the following week. Gorbachev had been irritated by the fact that Genscher had made reconnaissance trips to Kiev and Alma-Ata without once passing through Moscow, if only to observe the formalities. "Certain republics," continued Gorbachev, "feel that even the draft treaty lacks force.
