1787?1792 Ottoman Russian War

In Ottoman political history, Ottoman-Russian relations on the 18th century is of prime importance. Struggles against Russia, especially on the second part of this century can be regarded as a breaking point for Ottoman Empire. The process starting with Küçük Kaynarca treaty made itself thoroughly apparent after Ottoman-Russian and Ottoman-Austria War between 1787?1792 and as a result made way to a rapid decline and dissolution of Ottoman Empire.In this period, serious struggles took place between two nations over the rule of the Crimean Khanate and Ottoman Empire lost control of the Crimea and it fell under Russia?s domination. As a result, Russia completely settled down in the Black Sea and increased its threat on the region, particularly on the straits. After that, some western states like England and France who don?t want Russia to access to the warm sea ports and who want to protect their interests started a struggle against Russia?s further advancement in the region. This situation led way to Ottoman Empire to drive a balance policy among strong states and thus to continue its existence. As a consequence, the lands of Ottoman Empire became the competition ground of many western states, notably Russia.Keywords: The Crimean Khanate, Russia, the Yaş Treaty, the Ziştovi Treaty