In March 1941, a coup in Belgrade overthrew a pro-Nazi government, provoking the anger of Adolf Hitler, who ordered the destruction of Yugoslavia.

On 6 April 1941, under Operation Retribution, the Luftwaffe — Nazi Germany’s air force — launched a massive air assault on Belgrade. Planned by Alexander Löhr, the bombing used repeated waves and incendiary tactics that left large parts of the city in ruins.

Following Yugoslavia’s rapid defeat, Löhr commanded German forces across the Balkans, where anti-partisan operations brought harsh reprisals against civilians and the destruction of villages. He was also involved in the deportation of Jewish communities.

After the war, Löhr was captured, tried for war crimes, and in 1947 faced his final reckoning.