Unlikely. The Soviet Union's military wasn't as built up as it was later in the war, not to mention stretched supply lines and the troubles of quelling civil unrest from a recently-conquered populace. Perhaps Germany would try and make peace with France and Britain, as the Soviets are a bigger enemy to Nazism. It depends on if the Allied leaders hate communism enough to do that—I'm not sure.Could they have defeated Germany while it was occupied in the West?
Could they have defeated Germany while it was occupied in the West?
If the Soviets are invading Germany in 1940 then the Winter War probably never happened. What knock-on effects would removing the Winter War have on the Norwegian campaign?Absolutely not. The Soviet army in 1939 is much smaller and let's just say that their invasion of Poland doesn't bode well for a fight with the German army. Also, if they "keep going", Germany isn't occupied in the west yet - most of the German forces are right there in Poland. Absolutely not what Stalin wants.
Now, if they wait until the German invasion of France starts, the Soviets could do better. But their advance in Poland wouldn't be quick and they may not be able to defeat the German eastern garrison before Northern France is overrun... But then, if the Soviets are fighting Germany in the east, does France surrender in such a scenario? At that point, things could get interesting.
fasquardon
If the Soviets are invading Germany in 1940 then the Winter War probably never happened. What knock-on effects would removing the Winter War have on the Norwegian campaign?
I'm asking in the context of @fasquardon's suggestion that the Soviets invade during the Battle of France.What Norwegian campaign? can't go sailing around if the Soviet navy are coming for you (not that it was really up to much at that point), plus the troops would be needed in the east.