Русия и Балканският полуостров – власт, дипломация и взаимодействие (1700–1739)
Russia and Balkans – Power, Diplomacy and Interaction (1700 – 1739)

Summary/Abstract: At the beginning of 18th century Russia increased its military power and established itself as an important factor of the international relations, turning from a periphery to centre – a process which began when Ivan the Terrible (1530–1584)reigned and it attained vast dimensions under the reign of Peter I (1662–1725). Peter I carried out reforms following Western European model during the period when Western Europe began to imagine itself as a centre of the worldwide significance and when the Ottoman Empire gradually started to lose its strength. The reforms in Russia helped in augmenting of its power. Important victories were won and new territories were conquered by Russians. However, a state in order to establish its influence and domination over other countries it is necessary to develop not only military potential but also to improve its diplomacy. Peter I realized the necessity of well-prepared diplomats who had to protect the interests of the ruler and the country. The diplomacy transmuted into standing political activities of the state system and the figure of the Russian ambassador held key positions at the beginning of 18th century. By the use of different mechanisms of influence Russia pursued its goals on the Balkans. Such a mechanism of influence, for example, was the giving of a huge amount of bribes. During that period Russia needed some close cooperation with Southeast European Christians. The idea of religious proximity between them and Russia was constructed – a conceptual component which interrupted when Peter I suffered a reverse by the riverside of Prut, but later that idea was recovered.

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