What was the role of Romania in World War 2?

Answer

It allied itself with Germany in 1941, and helped Germany invade the Soviet Union. Later when the country the Red Army reached Romania, the Fascist government was overthrown. Romania tried to surrender to the USSR but was ordered to change sides without delay and fight the Germans.

Of all the German allies, the Romanians had probably the biggest and "better" equipped armies. Oh! and i use the term "better" loosely ]:-)

During the battle of Stalingrad, the Red Army -MADE SURE- to strike a blow against the Romanian army that was guarding the left flank of the German army in Stalingrad.

Needless to say...being poorly equipped, freezing to death, and not all too sure as to WHY or WHAT they were doing there, the Romanians folded like cards, and allowed the Red Army tanks to pour through. Thus, sealing the fate of the 6th German army in Stalingrad, as well as the fate of the 3rd Reich!

Answer

Romania's Fascist dictatorship, headed by the "Conducator" (= Leader) Antonescu was one of the more rabidly anti-semitic of German's allies. Early in 1941 Jews were openly slaughtered in the streets of Bucharest. Later they were deported to camps in swampy parts of Romania.

It did change sides. When Soviet forces entered Romania in September 1944 the king and various conservative army officers had Antonescu arrested and wanted to surrender to the Soviet Union. They were told that surrendering wasn't good enough and that they had to change sides - which they did.

First answer by Lucifer. Last edit by Joncey. Contributor trust: 1755 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 70 [recommend question]