The Munich conference exposes the dispute over Citadel
Hitler gathered senior commanders and advisers in Munich as the original early-May timetable slipped. Kluge and Zeitzler pressed for an early attack before Soviet preparations became still stronger; Guderian opposed the operation and emphasised the condition of the panzer arm and the risks of committing new vehicles before they were mature. The offensive remained approved, but its opening was postponed repeatedly through May and June as the German command waited for additional Panthers, Tigers and Ferdinands and completed the concentration. The same weeks allowed the Red Army to deepen the…
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