The Sixth and the Fourth Panzer Armies try to force the crossing of the River Don.  Success here will initiate the attack on Stalin's city and open the road to Astrakhan.

Comrade General You have been designated by the Stavka as direct representative to the Southwestern Front. General Zhukov himself signed your appointment. Vassiliev (Stalin) approved it. Unfortunately our failure in Kharkov and the fall of Sevastopol has given the initiative to the Hitlerites. The Fascist troops move unopposed in the area between the Donest and the Don Rivers. It is imperative that they are not allowed to cross the Don! The Rodina is in great danger! We rely on you!