MOSCOW, February 13. /TASS/. The operation to capture Budapest lasted more than six weeks, culminating in the Red Army's full possession of the city on February 13, 1945, as follows from documents released as part of a new historical and educational project presented by the Russian Defense Ministry, marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Hungarian capital.
"The assault on Budapest lasted over six weeks and became one of the fiercest battles of the Great Patriotic War. German and Hungarian forces, despite having no realistic chance of a successful counteroffensive, mounted fierce resistance. The city was transformed into a fortified stronghold, complete with numerous barricades, minefields, and fire emplacements. On February 13, 1945, the Red Army took full control of Budapest," the document states.
One significant historical document - a combat report from the headquarters of the 2nd Ukrainian Front - declares the complete capture of Budapest on February 13, 1945: "The troops of the left wing of the front, having breached several heavily fortified defensive lines both on the outskirts and within the city, ultimately defeated the encircled enemy forces after many days of intense street battles and fierce clashes over every building and block. By 10 a.m. on February 13, our forces had completely captured the capital of Hungary - Budapest - an essential hub of railroads and highways in Europe, the largest port on the Danube, and the main center of Hungary's entire industry."
The Soviet government highly valued the military successes achieved during the Budapest operation. By decree on June 9, 1945, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet (national legislature) of the USSR established the medal For the Capture of Budapest, which was awarded to participants in the battle for the city.
The Defense Ministry emphasized that the liberation of Budapest marked a crucial stage in the victorious conclusion of the Great Patriotic War. On February 13, 1945, Moscow celebrated the event with an artillery salute.