What happened before operation Barbarossa?

Answer 1

After the German failure of Battle fo Moscow, Germany had to revise their strategies in dealing with the USSR. After revising their strategy, Hitler comed up with a plan called Case Blue. This would lead upto the Battle of Kursk and the Battle of Stalingrad.

Answer 2

Initially, and indeed for some time, Barbarossa was dramatically successful for the Germans in WW2. The Blitzkreig was at its height, the Panzer forces were able to penetrate deep into Ukraine & Belorusse and many prisoners were taken into captivity. Huge losses were suffered by the Russians & defeat looked a real possibility. Soon Leningrad, Moscow & Stalingrad were all under threat. But Moscow was defended successfully, Leningrad was besieged for over 2 years & Stalingrad was where the Germans were finally repulsed. But it was a massive conflict.

Answer 3

It depends where you draw the line. The operation exceeded the initial targets.