Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov. Memories and reflections (№ 201440)

Leningrad! One of the most beautiful cities in the world. Works of architecture, painting, sculpture, wonderful monuments, beautiful gardens, parks and museums of the city are the pride of our country.
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The loss of Leningrad in all respects would be a serious complication of the strategic environment. In the case of the capture of the city by the enemy and the connections here are German and Finnish troops we would have to create a new front to defend Moscow from the North, and Deplete the strategic reserves, which was preparing a Bid to protect the capital. In addition, we inevitably would have lost a powerful Baltic fleet.
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Combat experience showed that the enemy was very sensitive to any kind of activity on our part. The counter-attacks and counter-attacks forced the enemy to advance in slow motion. Instead throw on the main line high impact forces, the German command was often limited to half-measures. And it gave us the opportunity to gain time, which was necessary for active centranedra.
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Two important factors: the introduction into the consciousness of our soldiers and the people unshakeable confidence in our victory and the necessity of accumulating reserves for the purpose of increasing the depth of defense of the front. The implementation of unexpected enemy strike forces of the 8th army was supposed to give immediate results.
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As shown by the further course of events, this plan proved to be efficient and effective.