Why Didn't Germany Come to Help Russia When They Invaded Finland During World War II?

The second World War was a complex and multifaceted conflict that saw many nations aligning and shifting allegiances based on shared enmities and interests. During this time, Finland and Germany were allied, both fighting against the Soviet Union. However, when the Soviet Union, not Russia, invaded Finland, Germany did not come to its aid. This article explores the reasons behind this lack of assistance and provides context for understanding the geopolitical dynamics of the era.

Allegiances and Conflicts

The concept of 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend' was at work during World War II, as both Finland and Germany were enemies of the Soviet Union. Finland's involvement in this conflict, known as the Winter War, began in late November 1939 when the Soviet Union attacked Finland. The Finnish army managed to hold off the Soviet forces, resulting in a stalemate known as the Winter War. This conflict took place approximately a year and a few months before Adolf Hitler launched his invasion of the Soviet Union.

Geographical and Historical Context

For Germany to send direct support to Finland would have required transiting through Latvia, Lithuania, or Estonia. However, the historical track record of Germany in its relations with Russia makes this unlikely. Germany and Russia have a complex history marked by wars and alliances. Given this context, the idea of Germany aiding Finland against the Soviet Union is highly improbable.

European Anti-Eurasian Sentiments

Europeans today are often perceived to be under attack from both Russian and American anti-European wokeness. However, the modern European stance against Russia is somewhat one-sided. This can be attributed to the geopolitical shifts since the Cold War, where Western Europe has focused more on countering Russian influence rather than maintaining a balanced approach. This shift in focus can be seen as a departure from earlier periods when alliances and opposition were more nuanced.

Shared Hostility and Temporary Alliances

Germany and Finland developed a shared animosity towards the Soviet Union, akin to the relationship between Germany and Austria-Hungary during the 19th century. Both nations shared a historical and ideological opposition to Communism. This shared hostility did not automatically translate into a permanent alliance. Despite this shared enmity, specific historical events and dynamics between Germany and the Soviet Union altered the landscape of their relationship. The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, signed in 1939, did not foresee direct military aid between Germany and the Soviet Union. This treaty further complicated any potential German support for the Soviet Union.

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, officially known as the German-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact, was a non-aggression and friendship treaty signed by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union on August 23, 1939. This pact ultimately included secret protocols dividing Eastern Europe, including Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and parts of Romania into German and Soviet spheres of influence. Although the treaty aimed to prevent direct conflict between the two nations, it did not guarantee German support for the Soviet Union in specific military engagements such as the invasion of Finland.

Germany's Response and Actions

When Germany invaded the Soviet Union in June 1941, Finland saw this as an opportunity to reclaim territories lost during the Winter War. As a result, Finland entered the conflict against the Soviet Union. However, despite the shared enmity, Germany did not provide direct military aid to Finland. This decision can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact did not establish any obligation for Germany to support the Soviet Union. Secondly, Hitler viewed the Soviet Union as an ally, and the attack on Finland was perceived as a betrayal. Germany's focus shifted entirely to the Eastern Front following the invasion of the Soviet Union.

Conclusion

The failure of Germany to aid Russia during the invasion of Finland during World War II is a complex issue rooted in historical alliances, shared enmities, and the geopolitical landscape of the time. Understanding this situation involves recognizing the intricate web of alliances and the burden of historical context. This case study provides insights into the dynamics of international relations and the challenges of maintaining consistent alliances in the face of shifting geopolitical landscapes.