"Comrade Zhukov, if I appoint you Moscow Garrison Commander, can you ensure that Moscow is held?" Joseph suddenly asked.
Zhukov froze. Clearly, he had not expected Joseph to raise such a question. But at a time like this, he obviously could not back down. Otherwise, who knew what orders Joseph might issue next?
"Comrade Joseph, I dare not guarantee that Moscow can definitely be held. But I can guarantee that Moscow's defenders will fight to the last man. Either the Germans will bleed dry in Moscow, or we will bleed dry ourselves!" General Zhukov replied.
Joseph was fairly satisfied with General Zhukov's answer. General Zhukov had not arrogantly claimed that he would definitely hold Moscow. After all, before the German military's such powerful offensive, even Joseph had no confidence that their troops could certainly defend Moscow. If General Zhukov had guaranteed it, Joseph would instead have thought he was bragging. So long as General Zhukov gave it his all, Joseph believed that Moscow's defensive battle would not be fought too disgracefully.
"Very well, Comrade Zhukov. I now formally appoint you Moscow Garrison Commander. All troops of the Reserve Front Army will be incorporated into the Moscow Garrison District. In addition, I will find ways to transfer more troops from elsewhere to reinforce Moscow. I have only one demand: do everything in your power to hold Moscow. Even if there is only the slightest hope, you must absolutely not give up," Joseph said.
"Yes, Comrade Joseph. I guarantee it to you!" General Zhukov replied.
General Joseph nodded in satisfaction. He hoped that General Zhukov could create a miracle this time. If the Russian army could truly hold back the German offensive at Moscow, then perhaps everything would still have a turn for the better.
"Comrade Joseph, I suggest that Comrade Zhukov's