Did Finland fight with Germany? This question often arises when discussing the complex history of Finland during World War II. The answer is not straightforward, as Finland’s relationship with Germany was multifaceted, involving both cooperation and conflict.
Finland’s proximity to the Soviet Union, which was also involved in World War II, played a significant role in its relationship with Germany. Initially, Finland sought to maintain its neutrality and avoid involvement in the war. However, as the Soviet Union threatened Finland’s territorial integrity, the situation changed rapidly.
In 1939, the Soviet Union launched the Winter War against Finland, aiming to reclaim territories lost during the 1918-1920 Civil War. In response, Finland sought support from Germany. Although Germany was primarily focused on its own interests in Eastern Europe, it agreed to provide military assistance to Finland. This assistance included the delivery of arms, ammunition, and advisors.
Despite this support, Finland’s relationship with Germany was strained. Finland was concerned about Germany’s expansionist ambitions and feared that its support might come at the cost of its sovereignty. Moreover, Finland was aware of the German-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact, which left it vulnerable to Soviet aggression from both sides.
As the Winter War progressed, Finland faced significant challenges. Despite initial successes, the Soviet Union eventually overwhelmed Finland’s defenses. In March 1940, Finland and the Soviet Union signed the Moscow Peace Treaty, which resulted in Finland losing significant territories, including parts of Karelia and Petsamo.
Following the Winter War, Finland’s relationship with Germany became more complex. While Finland remained concerned about Soviet aggression, it also sought to maintain its independence and avoid becoming a pawn in the German-Soviet conflict. In June 1941, when Germany invaded the Soviet Union, Finland joined the Axis powers, but only after receiving guarantees of territorial security from Germany.
Finland’s participation in the war with Germany was primarily focused on operations against the Soviet Union. The Continuation War, as it was known, lasted from June 1941 to September 1944. During this period, Finland fought alongside Germany in various campaigns, including the Siege of Leningrad and the Battle of Moscow.
However, Finland’s cooperation with Germany was not without its challenges. The Finnish military was often at odds with German strategy and command, and there were instances of Finnish troops refusing to follow German orders. Additionally, Finland was concerned about the potential consequences of aligning too closely with Germany, as it feared that the Soviet Union might seek revenge after the war.
In 1944, as the Soviet Union gained momentum, Finland sought a way to end the war. In September 1944, Finland signed the Moscow Armistice, which ended the Continuation War. Although Finland remained a member of the Axis powers until the end of World War II, it did not participate in the fighting against the Allies.
In conclusion, Finland did fight with Germany during World War II, but the nature of this conflict was complex. While Finland sought to protect its independence and territorial integrity, it also had to navigate the shifting alliances and ambitions of its neighbors. The relationship between Finland and Germany serves as a testament to the intricate and often conflicting dynamics of World War II.
