在1941年9月8日，德军切断了通往城市的最后一条道路， initiating a relentless siege that lasted for 872 days, making it one of the longest and most destructive sieges in history. Despite the heroic efforts of Soviet troops to establish a narrow land passage on January 18, 1943, it wasn't until January 27, 1944, that the city was finally liberated from its agonizing confines. This prolonged siege not only resulted in immense casualties but also left a tragic legacy of systematic starvation and deliberate slaughter among the civilian population. In the 21st century, some historians categorize this event as genocide due to the horrific conditions endured by the city's residents. This gripping tale serves as a stark reminder of humanity's capacity for resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity and the devastating consequences of war.
