On the Eastern Front... Small German forces reach the northern suburbs of Moscow and come within sight of the Kremlin, less than 20 miles away. Hitler orders a renewed push by Kluge's Fourth Army to the west of the city. The weather continues to grow colder with heavy snow and blizzards. Both Bock (Army Group Center) and Brauchitsch (Commander in Chief of the German Army) are ill and unable to fully perform their duties.

From Tokyo... A special code order "Climb Mount Niitaka" is transmitted by Japanese naval headquarters to their carrier force bound for Hawaii. This order confirms that negotiations have broken down and the attack on Pearl Harbor is to proceed.

In the East Indies... The British battleship Prince of Wales and the battle cruiser Repulse arrive in Singapore. They arrive to late to have the planned deterrent effect but the Japanese do note the British naval presence.

In North Africa... Heavy fighting in several areas. Rommel's forces continue the pressure against the Tobruk garrison in fighting around El Duda. British armor is engaged as they attempt to regroup farther south toward Bir el Bubi. They also attempt to send relief to the Axis garrisons at Bardia, Sollum and Halfaya Pass which are still resisting against 4th Indian Division of 13th Corps.