Why Did the USSR Not Invade Romania in 1968?

Despite Romanian leader Nicolae Ceausescu's vehement criticism of the invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968, the Soviet Union (USSR) chose not to invade Romania. This decision was driven by a complex interplay of historical, geopolitical, and military factors. Let's explore these factors in detail and examine the claim regarding the use of laser weapons to stop Soviet tanks.

Historical Context

Romania had a unique position within the Eastern Bloc after World War II. Romania maintained a degree of independence from Soviet control, particularly under Nicolae Ceausescu. Ceausescu sought to assert national sovereignty and established relationships with the West, pursuing policies that occasionally diverged from Soviet directives. This independence included establishing relationships with Western countries and pursuing various independent policies.

Geopolitical Considerations

An invasion of Romania would have had significant geopolitical repercussions. Romania was strategically located and played a pivotal role in Eastern European politics. The Soviet leadership likely realized that an invasion could destabilize the region further and provoke dissent among other Warsaw Pact nations. Romania had a history of nationalism that could inspire unrest, potentially leading to broader instability in the region.

Ceau?escu’s Popularity and Command

Ceau?escu's popularity among the Romanian people was high, and his vocal opposition to the invasion of Czechoslovakia resonated strongly with many Romanians. Given this popular sentiment, the Soviet leadership was likely concerned that an invasion could provoke widespread resistance and lead to a costly and unpopular military campaign. The potential for civil unrest and disruption of support from the Romanian populace was a significant deterrent.

Military Readiness

The Romanian military was relatively well-prepared and had fortified its borders, which made an invasion more challenging and risky for the Soviets. This preparedness added another layer to the calculus of whether an invasion was a feasible or worthwhile endeavor. The Romanian military's readiness and fortifications would have represented a serious obstacle to Soviet forces.

Historical Military Operations in 1944

Contrary to the above, there is historical evidence that the Soviet Union did indeed invade Romania during World War II. Here are some key details:

The Battle of Romania in World War II

The Battle of Romania involved several operations in 1944, primarily between the Soviet Red Army, Romanian troops, and Axis forces. The Soviet and Romanian forces drove back the Germans into Hungary. Some key operations include:

Tactical Operations in Romania (August 23-31, 1944): Soviet Red Army red, Romanian troops yellow, Axis forces blue.

Uman-Botoani Offensive (March 1944): Soviet forces entered Romanian territory, capturing several towns in northern Moldova, including Botoani.

Jassy-Kishinev Offensives (April 8-June 6, 1944): The first offensive aimed at cutting Axis defensive lines in northern Romania.

Second Jassy-Kishinev Offensive (August 20-29, 1944): A significant victory for the Soviet Union, resulting in the destruction of the German Sixth Army.

Impact of the Soviet Victory

The Soviet victory played a critical role in the broader war. The Axis front collapsed, leading to the withdrawal of Bulgaria from the Axis and the invasion of Bulgaria by Soviet forces. Romania was largely under Allied control by September 24, 1944.

Conclusion

The combination of Romania's assertive nationalism, the potential for regional instability, and the strategic calculations of the Soviet leadership contributed to the decision not to invade Romania in 1968. Historical events, however, show that the Soviet Union did invade Romania during World War II, achieving significant strategic and operational successes. The claim about laser weapons at the border is likely an exaggeration or fiction without substantiating evidence.