Russo-Swedish War (1656–1658)

The Russo-Swedish War (1656–1658), also known as the Little Northern War, was a theater of the Second Northern War, fought between Russia and Sweden. The conflict was initiated by Russia, which saw an opportunity to reclaim territories lost to Sweden in the Ingrian War earlier in the century, particularly the province of Ingria and the city of Riga.

The war began with Russian advances into Swedish Livonia and Ingria. Initial Russian successes included the capture of several key fortresses. However, these gains were short-lived. Sweden, under the capable leadership of Charles X Gustav, was deeply involved in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth during the Deluge, but managed to send forces to counter the Russian offensive.

The tide began to turn in 1657 as Sweden, aided by alliances with other powers, gained the upper hand. The Russian forces were pushed back, and Sweden was able to consolidate its control over the Baltic territories.

The war concluded in 1658 with the Treaty of Valiesar, which established a three-year truce. Under the terms of the truce, Russia retained some of the captured territories in Livonia. However, this was a temporary arrangement. In 1661, the Treaty of Cardis restored the pre-war territorial boundaries, and Russia relinquished its claims to Ingria and Livonia. The Russo-Swedish War thus ended with no significant territorial changes, solidifying Swedish dominance in the Baltic region for the time being. The war revealed weaknesses in the Russian military and highlighted the importance of Sweden's strong position in the region.