The Claim: "The Soviet Union Started World War II"

Introduction

The assertion that the Soviet Union started World War II is a contentious one, often debated among historians and political analysts. While the Soviet Union did play a significant role in the early stages of the war, particularly through its actions in Eastern Europe, the claim requires careful examination of historical context and events. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the claim, exploring the background, evidence, and implications of the Soviet Union's involvement in the onset of World War II.

Background

World War II officially began on September 1, 1939, when Nazi Germany invaded Poland. This invasion prompted Britain and France to declare war on Germany two days later. However, the roots of the conflict can be traced back to a series of geopolitical maneuvers and alliances, most notably the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact between the Soviet Union and Germany on August 23, 1939. This non-aggression treaty included a secret protocol that divided Eastern Europe into spheres of influence, effectively allowing both nations to expand their territories at the expense of neighboring countries, particularly Poland [1][9].

The Soviet Union's actions following the signing of this pact were crucial. On September 17, 1939, the Soviet Red Army invaded eastern Poland, effectively splitting the country with Germany and marking a significant escalation in the conflict [5][9]. This joint invasion of Poland is often cited as a critical moment in the lead-up to World War II, raising questions about the Soviet Union's role in initiating hostilities.

Analysis

The claim that the Soviet Union started World War II can be viewed from multiple perspectives. On one hand, the Soviet invasion of Poland and subsequent territorial expansions in Eastern Europe demonstrate a proactive and aggressive stance that contributed to the war's outbreak. On the other hand, it is essential to recognize that the primary aggressor was Nazi Germany, whose invasion of Poland triggered the war in Europe.

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact is a pivotal element in understanding the Soviet Union's role in the onset of World War II. This agreement not only ensured that the Soviet Union would not oppose Germany's military actions but also facilitated the division of Eastern Europe between the two powers [1][4]. The secret protocol of the pact allowed the Soviet Union to annex territories such as the Baltic states and parts of Poland, further solidifying its influence in the region [6][9].

Critics argue that by entering into this agreement, the Soviet Union effectively enabled Germany's initial aggression, thereby contributing to the war's outbreak. Historian Mark Kramer notes that the Soviet Union was a "leading participant from the very start, colluding for nearly two years with Nazi Germany" [1]. This collaboration raises ethical questions about the Soviet Union's responsibility in the lead-up to the war.

The Invasion of Poland

The Soviet invasion of Poland on September 17, 1939, is a critical event that underscores the complexities of the claim. While Germany's invasion on September 1 was the catalyst for the war, the Soviet Union's subsequent actions effectively eliminated Poland as a sovereign state, leading to a brutal occupation regime in the territories it annexed [1][5]. This occupation was marked by widespread violence and repression, further complicating the narrative of the Soviet Union as a victim of the war.

The joint military parade held by German and Soviet forces in Brest-Litovsk following the conquest of Poland exemplifies the collaboration between the two nations and the shared goals of territorial expansion [1][8]. This event is often overlooked in discussions about the war's origins but is crucial for understanding the Soviet Union's role in the conflict.

Evidence

Numerous sources corroborate the assertion that the Soviet Union played a significant role in the early stages of World War II. According to the Wikipedia entry on the Soviet Union in World War II, "the USSR was promised the eastern part of Poland... in case of its dissolution" as part of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact [3]. This agreement not only facilitated the Soviet invasion but also set the stage for further territorial ambitions in Eastern Europe.

Moreover, the historical context surrounding the Soviet Union's actions during this period is essential for understanding its motivations. The Soviet leadership, under Joseph Stalin, sought to secure its borders and expand its influence in the face of rising fascism in Europe. This strategic calculus led to a temporary alliance with Nazi Germany, which ultimately proved disastrous for the Soviet Union when Germany launched Operation Barbarossa on June 22, 1941, invading the USSR [6][10].

Conclusion

In conclusion, the claim that the Soviet Union started World War II is partially true, contingent upon the interpretation of historical events and the broader context of the war. While the Soviet Union did not initiate the conflict in the same manner as Nazi Germany, its actions—particularly the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and the invasion of Poland—played a significant role in shaping the early stages of the war. The complexities of this narrative highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of history, one that acknowledges the multifaceted motivations and actions of all parties involved.

The legacy of the Soviet Union's involvement in World War II remains a subject of debate and interpretation, reflecting the broader challenges of understanding historical events in their entirety. As we reflect on this pivotal moment in history, it is crucial to engage with the complexities and contradictions that define the narratives of both the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.

References

1. Kramer, Mark. "The Soviet Role in World War II: Realities and Myths." Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies. Link
2. "Soviet Union in World War II." Wikipedia. Link
3. "Invasion of Poland." Wikipedia. Link
4. "How and why did the Soviet Union get involved in WWII." World History Edu. Link
5. "History of the Soviet Union." Wikipedia. Link
6. "WORLD WAR II AND THE SOVIET UNION." Facts and Details. Link