Russo-Turkish war (1768–1774)

The Russo-Turkish War of 1768–1774 was a major armed conflict between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. It was triggered by Russian pursuit of Polish rebels into Ottoman territory, leading to Ottoman demands for Russian withdrawal from Poland. When Russia refused, the Ottomans declared war in October 1768.

The war took place across multiple theaters, including the Black Sea, the Balkans, and the Caucasus. Russian forces, under commanders such as Pyotr Rumyantsev and Alexei Orlov, achieved significant victories. Notably, the Russian navy gained dominance in the Aegean Sea, disrupting Ottoman trade and supporting rebellions in the Balkans. Land battles, particularly the Battle of Kagul in 1770, resulted in decisive Russian triumphs. In the Caucasus, Russian forces also made gains against the Ottomans and their Crimean Tatar allies.

The war concluded with the Treaty of Küçük Kaynarca in 1774. This treaty marked a significant turning point in the balance of power between Russia and the Ottoman Empire. Russia gained territories in the Black Sea region, including key ports such as Azov, Kerch, and Kinburn. They were also granted free navigation rights on the Black Sea for their merchant fleet, along with access to the Dardanelles Strait. The Crimean Khanate was formally declared independent of the Ottoman Empire, although it later came under Russian control. Russia also gained the right to represent Orthodox Christians within the Ottoman Empire, providing a pretext for future intervention in Ottoman affairs.

The war had lasting consequences, contributing to the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the rise of Russia as a major European power. It also fueled tensions and conflicts in the Balkans, setting the stage for future Russo-Turkish wars.