This is a very interesting thread. Where do you think the natives were to come in on this? We all know the troubles Russia has had in the region these last few centuries, basically every since they has decided to go there to begin with.

I can on one hand see Hitlers logic in going after Stalingrad, would you want the Russians to have that on your flank? Keep in mind, the Don retreat left a lot of the Russian army intact, on the other side of the Volga and in Stalingrad. I can also see the gamble he took going south. I'm willing to bet he was hoping for help from the natives in a big way.