Ep 1. The Liberation of Ukraine

Soviet Storm: World War II in the East season 2 episode 1, titled "The Liberation of Ukraine," explores the critical role the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic played during World War II. The episode begins by providing a historical overview of Eastern Europe before the war and how Ukraine was annexed by the Soviet Union. It then delves into the initial stages of Operation Barbarossa, the German invasion of the Soviet Union, which began on June 22nd, 1941.

The episode highlights the devastating effects of the Nazi occupation on Ukraine, including the mass murder of Jews and the destruction of cities and villages. However, the Ukrainian people did not surrender to the invaders and continued to resist. The episode profiles notable Ukrainian partisans, such as Nikolai Krylenko and the infamous OUN-B (Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists - Bandera faction), and their efforts to fight back against the occupying forces.

The episode then focuses on the Soviet counter-offensive and the liberation of Ukraine. Ukrainian troops played a crucial role in the Battle of Stalingrad, turning the tide of the war in favor of the Allies. The episode explores the fierce battles that took place in cities like Kharkov, Kiev, and Odessa, and the sacrifices made by both the Ukrainian soldiers and civilians.

"The Liberation of Ukraine" also sheds light on the relationship between the Soviet Union and the Ukrainian people during the war. While many Ukrainians initially welcomed the German forces as liberators from Soviet rule, the Nazi occupation quickly became a nightmare. The episode shows how the Soviet propaganda campaign attempted to sway the Ukrainian people back to the Soviet camp and how the Kievan resistance, led by the Ukrainian Communist Party, played a crucial role in winning back the city.

Lastly, the episode delves into the aftermath of the war in Ukraine. The Soviet Union once again annexed the region, and Stalin's post-war policies led to the deportation of thousands of Ukrainian citizens. Despite this, the Ukrainian people continued to fight for their independence, culminating in the recent Ukrainian revolution of 2014.

Overall, "The Liberation of Ukraine" showcases the critical role Ukraine played in World War II and illustrates the hardships faced by the Ukrainian people during the war. Through the stories of Ukrainian partisans, soldiers, and civilians, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the war in the East and the sacrifices that were made to ensure victory over Nazi Germany.