Operation Barbarossa was the code name for Nazi Germany’s invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II, launched on June 22, 1941. The invasion aimed to conquer vast swaths of Soviet territory for “Lebensraum” (living space), eliminate communism, and exploit resources. Initially, German forces achieved rapid advances, but the offensive was ultimately halted by fierce Soviet resistance, logistical challenges, and the harsh Russian winter. The operation marked a turning point in the war, opening the Eastern Front and contributing to Germany’s eventual defeat.