The Soviets lost large numbers of infantry units and tanks, but they kept the Germans away from entering the city. The Germans lost half of their tanks and only 1 infantry step. At times it was difficult to allow the loss of men in exchange for time, but it was the cost of victory for the Soviets. Watching losses of 24 infantry steps to 1 germans step loss can turn one against such a stragety. However, A Victory is a Victory and there are a lot more peasants to but in uniform.