Soviet Infantry Counterattack in the Battle of Stalingrad — November-December 1942

July 20, 2025 - Reading time: 6 minutes

Soviet infantry, led by Sergeant N. Surkov, launches a counterattack on Wehrmacht positions in the Battle of Stalingrad, November-December 1942.

Soviet infantry under Sergeant N. Surkov counterattacking Wehrmacht positions during the Battle of Stalingrad

This dramatic image shows a Soviet infantry unit, under the command of Sergeant N. Surkov, launching a counterattack on Wehrmacht positions in the Battle of Stalingrad during November-December 1942. As German forces pushed closer to the heart of the city, Soviet troops fought fiercely to halt their advance, often engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat and urban warfare.

The Battle of Stalingrad, one of the most pivotal moments in World War II, was marked by intense fighting and immense casualties. The Red Army's counterattacks, such as the one shown in this image, were crucial in turning the tide of the battle. Soviet soldiers, including Sergeant Surkov's unit, demonstrated incredible courage and determination, despite being heavily outnumbered and facing devastating artillery and airstrikes.

In this photo, we see a moment of resolve and resilience as the Soviet infantry pushes forward to recapture vital positions from the German invaders. The intensity of the fighting and the determination of the Soviet forces are evident in the stark surroundings of ruined Stalingrad.

The counterattacks by the Soviet forces in late 1942 played a major role in the eventual encirclement of German forces in Stalingrad, marking a decisive turning point in the war.

Technical photo data:
📝 Source of information: Unknown
📍 Location: Stalingrad, USSR
📅 Date of photo: November-December 1942
📷 Photographer: Alexander Ustinov

  • Soviet counterattack

  • Battle of Stalingrad

  • Red Army soldiers

  • Wehrmacht positions

  • Soviet infantry combat

  • Stalingrad 1942

  • WWII counteroffensive

  • Urban warfare tactics

  • Soviet resistance

  • German forces WWII

  • Stalingrad siege

  • Soviet military leaders

  • World War II victories