Capture of Stalino

Assault on Stalino also known as Capture of Stalino was fought between the Italian forces and Soviet Union during the Eastern Front of World War II. The city today is known as Donetsk.

Battle
In its rapid advance toward the Sea of Azov in October 1941, the German 1st Panzer Army pushed the Soviet Southern Front into retreat, prompting the German High Command to order an advance toward Taganrog, Rostov, and Stalino. The Italian “Celere” Division supported this movement, advancing alongside German units despite poor roads and limited transport. Its cavalry and Bersaglieri battalions carried out fast attacks, often fighting scattered Soviet rearguard forces and overcoming strong automatic-weapon resistance. Notable actions included a cavalry charge by elements of the “Savoia” Regiment and the difficult advance of the “Novara Lancers.” After several days of fighting, the Celere Division, using small mobile groups supported by horse artillery, helped break Soviet defenses and took part in the occupation of Stalino on 20 October. Italian commanders praised the division’s determination and mobility, while German commanders acknowledged its decisive and often self-initiated support during the advance.

 References 

Category:Battles involving the Soviet Union
Category:Battles involving Germany
Category:Battles involving the United Kingdom
Category:Battles involving Italy
Category:World War II
Category:Battles of World War II involving Italy
Category:European battles of World War II