Germany: Timetable

A chronology of some of the more interesting events leading up to the break between Germany and Russia:

1940

Nov. 12—U.S.S.R.'s Premier Molotov arrives in Berlin, talks with Nazis in "an atmosphere of mutual confidence."

Nov. 23—Rumania joins the Axis.

1941

Jan. 1—Dictator Joseph Stalin, in New Year's message, says U.S.S.R. is totally mobilized.

Jan. 10—Germany and U.S.S.R. sign Pact of Friendship, extend trade agreements.

Feb. 25—U.S.S.R. defense budget is a third of total budget, 24% higher than 1940's record appropriation.

March 1—Bulgaria joins Axis and local Communists protest as Nazi troops enter Sofia heading for Greek border.

March 23—Yosuke Matsuoka, Japan's Foreign Minister, visits Moscow.

March...