The demand for independence by various regions within the Soviet Union was primarily driven by several key reasons, which ultimately led to the assertion of their national identities.

Economic and Political Oppression:
- Many regions within the Soviet Union felt economically and politically oppressed by the central government in Moscow.
- They believed that their resources were being exploited for the benefit of the Soviet government, leading to disparities in wealth and development.

Cultural and Linguistic Differences:
- Different regions within the Soviet Union had unique cultural and linguistic identities that were often suppressed or marginalized by the dominant Soviet culture.
- Many regions sought independence in order to preserve and promote their own cultural heritage and language.

Desire for Self-Determination:
- The desire for self-determination was a key driving force behind the demand for independence in various regions.
- People wanted to govern themselves and make decisions that were in their own best interests, rather than being dictated by the central Soviet government.

Assertion of National Identities:
- The demand for independence by various regions within the Soviet Union ultimately led to the assertion of their national identities.
- People in these regions began to reclaim and celebrate their unique cultural heritage, language, and traditions.
- This assertion of national identities played a crucial role in the eventual breakup of the Soviet Union and the emergence of independent states.
In conclusion, the demand for independence by various regions within the Soviet Union was driven by economic, political, cultural, and self-determination factors, which ultimately led to the assertion of their national identities and the breakup of the Soviet Union.