The invasions of Russia by France in 1812 and by

Germany in World War II were unsuccessful in

part because of the

(1) Russian alliances with China

(2) harsh climatic conditions in Russia

(3) inexperience of French and German military

leaders

(4) failure of France and Germany to develop

modern weapons

The invasions of Russia by France in 1812 and by Germany in World War II were unsuccessful in part because of the 2. harsh climatic conditions in Russia. A common trend in Russian military history is relying on "General Winter," a term given to the extremely harsh winters. General Winter frequently defeats invading forces (like France and Germany) because those troops are ill-equipped and inexperienced in fighting in such a harsh, cold climate.