Hitler deemed victory against the Soviet Union to be uncomplicated. Hitler observed the Soviet military difficulties against Finland in 1939 which led him to think their forces would fail. The German leader considered Stalin as an inadequate leader unable to conduct military warfare effectively. In the eyes of Hitler this appeared to be nothing more than an easy victory.
Hitler felt this way due to his previous swift military victories against Poland and France. His forces had previously defeated Poland and France rapidly alongside other countries. Blitzkrieg was working. Fast attacks, quick wins. He felt unstoppable.
So in 1941, he went for it. He executed a massive invasion against the Soviet Union. The German leader believed it would take only 3 to 4 months for Germany to win against the Soviet forces. The main objective is to advance through cities until essential oil facilities fall into German control. Done.
But that’s not what happened.
When German military forces initiated their advances they did so with speed. Through their military success they managed to claim control over new territories. The Soviet military forces successfully resisted the collapsing of their structure during the conflict. They kept fighting. Then winter hit—hard. German soldiers were freezing. The soldiers lacked necessary survival elements including suitable clothes and food along with fuel supplies. They were stuck.
And the Soviets? They were tough. The Communists owned more troops as well as greater territorial extent while maintaining total determination. The planned victory lasted longer than anyone had expected becoming a prolonged and enduring battle.
Hitler was wrong. The German military error eventually became one of the reasons why Germany lost the war.
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