202 - Leningrad, 1941-42

The Siege of Leningrad in World War II

During the 900-day siege of Leningrad in World War II, over 2 million Russians were trapped, thousands died from starvation, and the city was cut off from supplies. The Germans surrounded the city and aimed to starve it into submission. The road of life, a route across Lake Ladoga, became vital for bringing supplies and evacuating civilians. The Russians made several attempts to break the siege, but the harsh terrain and lack of roads hindered their efforts. The Germans planned to tighten the siege perimeter and destroy the city, but their strategic focus shifted with the developments in other fronts. The introduction of Tiger tanks provided no significant advantage due to mechanical breakdowns and unsuitable terrain. By the autumn of 1942, the strategic balance had shifted, and the Germans were holding off Soviet attempts to break the siege. However, the tide was turning in favor of the Red Army. The siege was officially broken in January 1943 with the successful Operation Icebreaker, which reestablished a land link. Nevertheless, German artillery and the Cignavino Heights continued to interdict the supply route. The siege was fully lifted in early 1944 when the Red Army pushed back Army Group North from the outskirts of Leningrad. Book Two, "Hero City," further explores the events following the break of the siege.