Finland's Complicated Relationship with Germany during WWII: A Pivot from War to Peace

During World War II, Finland found itself entangled in a series of complex alliances and conflicts, particularly with Germany and the Soviet Union. This article explores how Finland initially did not cooperate with Germany against the Soviet Union, and eventually turned to a de facto partnership as a co-belligerent to regain lost territories, before ultimately ending the cooperation when it became clear that Germany was likely to lose the war.

Initial Non-Alignment

At the onset of World War II, Finland did not join efforts with Germany to attack the Soviet Union. Initially, Germany was not involved in the conflict, and Finland was attacked solely by the Soviet Union. The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, signed in August 1939, promised areas of influence, including Eastern Baltic countries and possibly Finland. However, despite these agreements, Finland did not invade the USSR but found itself in a brutal war known as the Winter War (1939-40), where Finland successfully defended its sovereignty.

From Non-Intervention to Co-Belligerence

Following the Winter War, Finland's relationship with Germany began to evolve. While there was never a formal treaty or pact between Germany and Finland, the Finns allowed a certain amount of German forces to establish bases and aid in the war against the Soviet Union. This arrangement was aimed at regaining the territories that Stalin had taken, especially Karelia, which was lost during the Winter War. The Finns were not fascists but sought to leverage German assistance to achieve their national goals.

This cooperation continued until Germany's strategic position began to deteriorate in 1944. As it became clear that Germany was preparing to lose the war, Finland negotiated a peace treaty with the Soviet Union and expelled the remaining German forces from its territory. This period marked a significant shift in Finland's foreign policy, reflecting the nation's pragmatism and desire to maintain its sovereignty in the face of changing international circumstances.

The Winter War and Allies

The Winter War of 1939 saw a diverse array of nations provide support to Finland, making for some unusual partnerships. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, the United States, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, among others, assisted Finland by supplying weapons, allowing citizens to serve as volunteers, granting passage through their territory for arms and personnel, or providing moral support. European powers like Germany served as key players but with an emphasis on non-military cooperation.

Questions and Clarifications

It is important to note that while Germany and the Soviet Union had initially been allies through the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, Italy was not involved in the confrontation between Finland and the Soviet Union. Italy maintained a neutral position and did not participate in the same theater of war as Germany and Finland.

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact of August 1939 further specified that Finland was part of the "sphere of influence" of the Soviet Union. Despite these agreements, Finland's steadfast resistance to the Soviet offensive during the Winter War was a testament to the nation's determination and strategic alignment.

Finland's wartime strategy was a calculated balancing act, seeking to preserve its independence while leveraging the strengths of various international allies. This flexibility in diplomatic and military maneuvers was instrumental in Finland's ability to navigate the treacherous landscape of World War II.