Treaty of Berlin signed, redrawing the Balkans

Background. The Treaty of Berlin was the final act of the Congress of Berlin, which ran from 13 June to 13 July 1878. The Congress revised the territorial and political terms imposed by the Treaty of San Stefano, which had ended the Russo-Turkish War. The treaty was signed by representatives of Austria-Hungary, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Russia, and the Ottoman Empire.

Territorial Changes. The treaty recognized the independence of Romania, Serbia, and Montenegro, though they lost territory. Bulgaria's autonomy was confirmed, but its borders were reduced compared to the Treaty of San Stefano. Bosnia and Herzegovina were placed under Austro-Hungarian administration, with the right to garrison the Sanjak of Novi Pazar. Britain gained administrative control of Cyprus.

Diplomatic Context. The Congress was solicited by Britain and Austria-Hungary to counter Russian influence in the Balkans. Britain had already secured the Cyprus Convention in June 1878, a secret agreement granting it administrative control of Cyprus in exchange for supporting the Ottomans. Austria-Hungary secured the right to occupy Bosnia, a result of prior negotiations with Britain.