By December 24, the German offensive had practically collapsed. The Germans did not even reach its first target, which was the river Meza. They also failed to get large amounts of fuel as planned. Although losses, especially in tanks, have been minimal to date, General von Manteuffel has recommended ending the operation and withdrawing the German forces for Siegfried. Hitler rejected this proposal.
Meanwhile, the situation began to resemble that of the fall fighting in Normandy, ie the Allies concentrated their forces on the attack which would cut off the German divisions in the Ardennes. From the north, the forceps had 1 and 9 armies commanded by Marshal Montgomery. From the south, 3 Patton's Army was hit.

"General,
Unfortunately, the actions of the 6th Armored Cavalry did not produce the expected result - they did not capture the crossing at Moza and the attack was stuck in the Ardennes forest. Patrols of our paratroopers made deep reconnaissance behind the enemy lines. The information that we have is that the enemy is concentrated in the vicinity of Malmedy - Elsenborn in the north, and Diekirch in the south. In this situation, there is a serious risk of cutting off 6 SS Armored Armies and 5 Armored Armies fighting west of Our River.

Operational tasks:
- 6 SS Armored Division will cross the east bank of Our River towards Stadtkyll and Prum. At the same time, delaying measures must be taken to allow the greatest possible proportion of equipment and people to cross.
- 5 Armored Corps also taking retaliatory action crosses the river Our and retreats towards Reiff.

Field Marshall Walther Model "
