Operation Margarethe was a covert military operation conducted by the German Nazi regime during World War II. Running from 11-30 March 1944, it involved the invasion and occupation of Hungary by German forces.
Operation Margarethe aimed to secure the Hungarian government's cooperation and prevent their potential defection from the Axis powers. The operation was named after the daughter of German general Kurt Student, who had proposed the plan. Under the leadership of German General Edmund Veesenmayer, the operation deployed German troops, mainly paratroopers, and occupied key strategic locations throughout Hungary.
The German forces acted swiftly and efficiently, taking control of numerous crucial sites, including airfields, government offices, and communication centers. The operation's intention was to safeguard Hungary's resources, prevent a potential coup or defection, and solidify Germany's hold on the Hungarian government.
Operation Margarethe marked a pivotal moment in Nazi occupation tactics as it displayed the regime's ability to forcefully assert its control over an ally while minimizing resistance from within. The operation succeeded in consolidating Germany's authority over Hungary, enabling them to exert influence over the country's politics, economy, and military for the remainder of the war.
Overall, Operation Margarethe was a military maneuver carried out by Nazi Germany to maintain control over Hungary, exemplifying their strategic dominance and willingness to forcefully occupy an ally to further their war efforts.
