Invasion of Yugoslavia — 1941 German-led attack on the Kingdom of Yugoslavia by the Axis powers during the Second World War
The Axis invasion ended Yugoslav sovereignty in 11 days, leading to occupation and partition that shaped Balkan politics through World War II.
Key Facts
- Invasion start date
- 6 April 1941
- Armistice signed
- 17 April 1941
- Duration of campaign
- Approximately 11 days
- Directive authorizing invasion
- Führer Directive No. 25, issued 27 March 1941
- Puppet state created
- Independent State of Croatia (NDH)
- German zone of occupation
- Most of Serbia and the Banat
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
A Yugoslav coup d'état on 27 March 1941 overthrew the pro-Axis government, prompting Adolf Hitler to issue Führer Directive No. 25 ordering the invasion. The coup signaled Yugoslavia's unwillingness to cooperate with Axis strategic plans, making military action Hitler's chosen response to secure the Balkan flank.
Beginning on 6 April 1941, Axis forces launched simultaneous air attacks on Belgrade and the Royal Yugoslav Air Force, followed by German ground thrusts from Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Austria. Italian forces joined on 11 April, advancing toward Ljubljana and along the Dalmatian coast, while Hungarian forces entered Bačka and Baranya, meeting little resistance throughout the rapid campaign.
Yugoslavia surrendered unconditionally on 17 April 1941, and was subsequently occupied and partitioned among Germany, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Albania. The Independent State of Croatia was established as an Axis puppet state, while most of Serbia became a German occupation zone. This partition set the stage for prolonged resistance and civil conflict within Yugoslav territory for the remainder of the war.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
3 belligerents
Adolf Hitler.
Side B
1 belligerent