Part 6/10:

The Soviets, under the leadership of Stalin and later Zukov, recognized the urgent need to regroup, fortify, and prepare for a bitter contest. They would soon enact a series of strategies aimed at preserving their remaining military capabilities while reinforcing the defense of Moscow.

The Soviet Response and Fortification of Moscow

By mid-October, the Soviets had created formidable defenses comprising trenches, barricades, and anti-tank obstacles. As heavy fighting continued, the Soviet response began to stymie the German advance. The Germans struggled to maintain momentum amidst unfavorable weather conditions and their overextended supply lines, and the arrival of winter only exacerbated these troubles.