In fact, there was no need for Pavlov to call. The situation of the Southwest Front Army had already made him extremely angry. But what puzzled him even more was that he did not understand why Zhukov, who had saved the situation at Nomenkan and severely damaged the Japanese army, faced the German army this time.
, not only failed to deal any powerful blow to the enemy, but also repeatedly suggested to himself to retreat and to voluntarily give up a large amount of territory.
He really couldn't figure out why Zhukov, whom he had always valued, was unable to command his troops to defeat the Germans, and even refused to carry out the attack orders from the high command at critical moments.
Stalin remembered a few years ago, when Zhukov had left a very good impression on him. He first showed his talents in the war against Japan, showed superb command and organizational skills, triumphantly returned to Moscow, was praised by the whole country, and was awarded the title of "Hero of the Soviet Union". Because of this
, he promoted Zhukov to general in advance and appointed him as the commander of the Kiev Special Military District, the largest military region in the Soviet Union.
Later, the Kiev Military District was renamed the present Southwest Front, and Zhukov remained the Chief of General Staff of the Soviet Army.
Now that Zhukov has been transferred back to the Southwest Front to guide the work, he is also allowed to return to his old army. He should not be uncomfortable. I think when Zhukov went to the Far East, he took over all unfamiliar troops. In the end, he was not able to defeat the Japanese army.
The crazy attack of the Japanese army completely gave up the idea of going north. Now that the old subordinates are commanded, the effect will be better.
At this time, Stalin only knew the ferocity and tenacity of the Japanese troops, but he had not yet had time to experience and become familiar with a completely different style.
Although he had chosen Germany, Stalin had not yet truly understood his opponent. The German army was different from the Japanese army he knew before, or it could be called a comprehensively upgraded version of the Japanese army.
During the battle, the German SS's bravery and tenacity were no worse than those fanatical Japanese soldiers who believed in Bushido. The weapons, equipment and tactical system of the German Wehrmacht were much better than those of Japan.
Not to mention that the troops Zhukov took over now were the remnants of the Southwest Front Army that had suffered heavy losses in the previous suicide attack. Even if Zhukov led the Southwest Front Army in its heyday, it would be impossible to complete the offensive requirements ordered by Stalin.
It can even be said that it is completely the opposite. Zhukov is now disobeying orders and asking to retreat, which is the way to truly save the Soviet army and is suitable for fighting against the German army.
Just like the German god Manstein in another time and space advised Hitler to withdraw his troops and shorten the defense line. But Zhukov in time and space also encountered the same option.
Following Stalin's request would be tantamount to ruining his troops. Out of his sense of responsibility as a commander, Zhukov could only make his most hated retreat suggestion to Stalin.
It's a pity that in another time and space, Manstein was dismissed by Hitler because of his outspokenness. And now Zhukov also faces an internal enemy, the mediocre general Pavlov.
Pavlov, who wanted to take revenge on Zhukov, had slandered Zhukov countless times from the rear and even made up rumors that Zhukov colluded with the Germans.
Rumors mentioned that Zhukov was able to win quickly against the Japanese, so why was he so cowardly when facing the Germans? He also repeatedly proposed to abandon the country and allow the Germans to occupy Soviet territory. Therefore, the rumors seriously injured Zhukov's collaboration with the enemy.
, otherwise the situation today would not be possible.
In this regard, Zhukov, who had been working hard for the Soviet-German war situation, simply could not argue. In addition, he was focused on the war situation, and he did not do his job like Pavlov, who always focused on this kind of situation.
On the other hand, there are three abusive methods.
But it was clear that Zhukov was loyal and Pavlov was cunning and cunning, but Stalin didn't see it that way.
In the eyes of Stalin, Pavlov, a newly promoted general who was also promoted by him, was clear-cut in his report, appeared to be steady and confident. Moreover, thanks to Pavlov's good handling of interpersonal relationships, he was favored by the top Soviet officials.
The reputation is also very good.
Looking back at Zhukov, he seemed a bit arrogant.
As a military general, Zhukov is undoubtedly excellent. He possesses leadership and command skills that ordinary people do not have in the military. However, this type of person generally has a simple and rough personality, is moody and angry, and uses foul language.
It has become a common thing. From Zhukov leading troops to fight against Japan in Nomenkan, we can see that Zhukov is strict in running the army and is also very strict with the soldiers.
It wouldn't matter if he was just strict with the soldiers. The key is that Zhukov was also strict with his colleagues and often pointed out and criticized colleagues he disliked. This led to his extremely low popularity among the top leaders of the Soviet Union.
Furthermore, Zhukov's character is more sharp-edged and not rounded enough, which makes him make more enemies in his official career. Some people have to make excuses because of the prestige he previously gained in Nomenkan. But when Zhukov met him this time,
After the stalemate with Stalin, almost all the people who were familiar with him cut off contact with him. To a certain extent, Zhukov did not have many friends.
This also resulted in Pavlov launching a verbal and verbal attack on Zhukov. The top Soviet officials basically stood by Pavlov, and few spoke for Zhukov.
Three people became a tiger. Even though Stalin thought Zhukov was reliable at first, after many senior officers led by Pavlov repeatedly slandered him, Stalin began to doubt Zhukov more and more.
There are tragedies like this in every era. This is the same nature of history. Just as Yue Fei, who served his country loyally, was framed by treacherous ministers and killed on unfounded charges. Today, Zhukov has also encountered a mortal enemy like Pavlov, who is determined to put him at risk.
Death place.
The key is that in Stalin's eyes, Pavlov was actually a reliable and trusted general, a Soviet general whose strength and ability were no less than Zhukov's.
As the commander of the Western Special Military District, Pavlov was in charge of one of the most elite fronts of the Soviet Union. He was rich in experience and participated in World War I, the Civil War, the Battle of the Eastern Railway, and he also received the Hero Medal while supporting the Spanish Civil War.
, also participated in the Soviet-Finnish war not long ago, and he looked completely battle-hardened.
Thinking of this, and comparing Pavlov, who always obeyed his instructions, with Zhukov, who had become increasingly disobedient recently, Stalin returned to his desk. He was determined to reverse the current unfavorable situation. The most direct and effective way was to replace the military commander.
, strengthen the command of the troops and change the current chaotic situation.
Stalin picked up the phone: "Talk to the General Staff... I think General Pavlov's suggestion to replace Zhukov is correct. Implement it immediately. At the same time, also remove the commander of the Southwest Front, Kilpono.
General Sri Lanka, Chief of Staff of the Front Army Lieutenant General Puerkaev, Director of Communications of the Front Army Major General Balkaev, Director of Artillery Major General Banoch. These people will all be tried by the military court when they return. Marshal Tiege Xinge will take over as commander of the Southwest Front.
Duty, leaving Khrushchev to assist him. Execute immediately!"