Treaty of Niš

Diplomatic Context. The treaty emerged from the Russo-Turkish War (1735–1739). While the Habsburg monarchy ended its participation via the Treaty of Belgrade on 18 September 1739, Russian-Ottoman negotiations continued. French mediation facilitated both the preliminary Belgrade agreement and the final Niš convention, distinguishing the Russian settlement from the Habsburg terms.

Treaty Terms. Under the final agreement, Russia surrendered its claims to Crimea and Moldavia. In exchange, the Russian Empire was authorized to build a port at Azov. However, this port was restricted to being unfortified, and Russia was denied the right to maintain a fleet in the Black Sea, limiting its naval expansion in the region.

Ratification and Conclusion. Following the signing in Niš, the treaty required formal ratification by Empress Anna of Russia. Diplomatic instruments were subsequently exchanged, and the final convention was signed in Constantinople on 28 December 1739. This final step, also mediated by France, formally concluded the war between the two empires.