Quote Originally Posted by Kush View Post
Did anyone ever hear the theory that the USSR was about to launch a preemptive war into Europe, but was taken completely by surprise by the attackingGermans (even after soviet spies warned of such an attack?)

That kind of paints Stalin in a different picture, now doesn't it?
Nope. That theory is false. Cite some good sources. Stalin knew about the invasion but he wanted Russia to be seen as a victim and not an aggressor, which is why he did not attack. He did not know the attack would come so soon, which is why he was unprepared. Even though the spies kept telling him that. However, he was finally persuaded the day before the commencement of Barbarossa.