Soviet Troops Liberate Tallinn: A Historical Reflection on the 80th Anniversary
On September 22, 1944, Soviet forces achieved a significant victory by liberating Tallinn from Nazi occupation, marking a pivotal moment in World War II. This year, as we approach the 80th anniversary of this event, the Russian Defense Ministry has unveiled a dedicated historical section on its website titled “Liberated Tallinn Drowned in Flowers.” This initiative features rare archival materials detailing the battles that occurred in Soviet Estonia, shedding light on the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period.
The strategic importance of Tallinn was underscored during the war, as it served as the main base for the Baltic Fleet. The Red Army's 10th Rifle Corps played a crucial role in defending the city against Nazi advances from August 5 to 28, 1941. Their valiant efforts disrupted German plans to swiftly capture Leningrad and ultimately led to the evacuation of troops and civilians via the Baltic Fleet when the situation became dire.
The Nazi regime established a brutal occupation in Estonia, characterized by terror against civilians. Collaborationist units, including the notorious Omakaitse self-defense groups, were complicit in horrific crimes. Eyewitness accounts reveal the chilling details of mass executions and the use of concentration camps, where prisoners, including Jews and political dissidents, faced inhumane conditions and forced labor. The Klooga concentration camp, in particular, became infamous for its atrocities, with reports indicating that over 1,600 Jews were executed in a single day.
Despite the fear instilled by Nazi propaganda, many Estonians resisted, fighting alongside Soviet troops to reclaim their homeland. The Tallinn operation commenced on September 17, 1944, as the Red Army launched a coordinated offensive to liberate the city. The operation culminated on September 22 when Soviet soldiers raised the red flag over Tall Hermann tower, symbolizing the end of Nazi control in the region.
The liberation was met with gratitude from the local population, who welcomed the Soviet troops with open arms, offering flowers and gifts as a gesture of appreciation. Reports from the time highlighted the joy and relief felt by Estonians as they greeted their liberators, marking a significant turning point in their history.
The successful Tallinn operation not only liberated the city but also restored Soviet control over the eastern Baltic Sea, allowing for strategic military advantages in the region. The courage and determination of Soviet soldiers during this operation remain a testament to their commitment to ending the Nazi occupation and restoring peace in Estonia.
