Smolensk was only three hundred kilometers from Moscow. Once the German military had dealt with the remnants of the Russian Western Front Army and captured Smolensk, at their rate of advance, they might reach the gates of Moscow in less than a month.
As Buru's capital and heart, Moscow held irreplaceable importance for the country. If Moscow fell, it would deal Buru an incalculably devastating blow.
Of course, even if Moscow fell, Buru would never surrender. They would continue withdrawing eastward and continue resisting the German offensive. But if it truly came to that, Buru's situation would become even more difficult. Defeating the German military would undoubtedly become far harder. No one wanted matters to develop to that point.
"It is not only the Germans' Army Group B. Their Army Group C is also headed for Moscow. Even if their Army Group A captures Ulyanovsk, it will certainly turn south to attack Moscow. When that happens, we will face a three-pronged German encirclement!" Marshal Voroshilov said.
Everyone in the office immediately went pale. Over the past week of fighting, they had gained a profound understanding of the German military's strength. If Moscow truly came under attack from three directions, holding Moscow would be nearly impossible.
"We must avoid such a situation as much as possible!" Joseph said.
"Yes, Comrade Joseph," the generals and marshals answered. Yet Joseph could clearly hear their lack of confidence. Indeed, the Germans' performance in this war had already planted fear of the German military in the hearts of these commanders.
"Comrade Joseph, we need the Western Front, Southwestern Front, and Northwestern Front Army to hold their ground. They must delay the enemy for at least another month. If we can do that, the German offensive will have no choice but to halt. We will have