September 1944

Eastern Front

The Germans launch a series of new attacks against the Poles in Warsaw city center. Fierce resistance prevents any significant gains. In some sectors of the city, a ceasefire promoted by the Polish Red Cross is honored, allowing the evacuation of thousands of civilians. However, nearly a quarter of a million remain inside the city. Talks fail to make any headway.

The 1st and 4th Ukrainian Fronts begin new attacks aimed at penetrating the Dukla Pass in southern Poland. The 38th Army, with 99,000 men, supported by 264,000 of the 4th Ukrainian Front. Striking the 1st Panzer Army, fierce battles erupt in the extensive German fortifications.

Army Group E is dangerously exposed by the Russian advance into Yugoslavia. Large-scale partisan attacks pin the Germans down as they withdraw, slowing their evacuation. Army Group F is already heavily committed to fighting Tito's partisans.

After a brief campaign the 57th and 37th Armies of the 3rd Ukrainian Front overrun Bulgaria. A pro-Soviet coup installs a Communist regime, which immediately declares war on Germany.