Final answer:
Operation Barbarossa was Hitler's code-named invasion of the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941, utilizing a massive land invasion force. Despite early advances, the harsh winter, vast territory, and Soviet resistance lead to a stalled and failed campaign. The correct option is 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beginning on June 22, 1941, this massive military campaign marked a pivotal turn in World War II, featuring the largest German-led land invasion force in history. Advancing on three primary fronts—towards Leningrad, Moscow, and the oil-rich Caucasus—German forces aimed to decimate the Soviet Union swiftly using their Blitzkrieg tactics.
Despite early German successes and the vast capture of land and Soviet prisoners, over three million German troops faced fierce resistance and ultimately, the harsh Russian winter that played a crucial role in bogging down their advance.
The invasion betrayed the earlier German-Soviet Nonaggression Pact, with countries like Finland and Romania partaking alongside Germany in the assault. Operation Barbarossa initially achieved astonishing successes against a Soviet Union weakened by Stalin's purges.
However, the sheer size of the country, the scorched earth tactics, and the relocated eastern factories beyond Luftwaffe's reach began to turn the tide. The operation ultimately failed to achieve its quick victory and became a protracted and costly campaign for the Germans.
Hence, Option 2 is correct