the soviets figured Reagan would soften his rhetoric once he got elected like all prior cold war presidents with a possible exception of Eisenhower. Eisenhower being a General and knowing the Russians well from dealing with them in WWII knew how hardcore they were. When Reagan didn't soften but instead ramped up his tough stance Gorbachev when he met Reagan realized Reagan wouldn't back down and signed the INF Treaty figuring it was the best and only deal he'd get.
Gorby btw is still alive at 90 and has criticized Putin
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mikhail_Gorbachev Originally Posted by The_Waco_Kid
Reagan stuck to his guns. But you have to say when he met Gorby, his personality had to have an affect. And writing that he is still alive, you remind me of the other KGB head who lead Russia. Thank god he died soon after. Maybe an inside poisoning