The primary goal of the Allies in their counteroffensive after the initial German attack was to regain lost territory.

When the Germans unexpectedly attacked on December 16, 1944, during the Battle of the Bulge, Allied forces realized they had to act swiftly. Important regions, including crucial towns and supply lines, had been taken during the first German advances. The goals of the Allies were to rebuild their defensive positions, regain lost land, and stop the German momentum. The response was organized by General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe, who concentrated on mobilizing soldiers and carrying out counterattacks to drive the German forces back. In addition to regaining lost ground, the effective counteroffensive signaled a sea change in the conflict and resulted in a major loss of German capabilities and resources.