The Russo-Ottoman War of 1710–11, also known as the Pruth River Campaign after the main event of the war, erupts as a consequence of the defeat by the Russian Empire of Sweden in the Battle of Poltava and the escape of the wounded Charles XII of Sweden to the court of the Ottoman Sultan Ahmed III.

Following incessant Russian pressure and demands for Charles, the Ottomans declare war on Russia on November 20, 1710.

Concurrently with these events, the Prince Dimitrie Cantemir of Moldavia and Peter the Great sign the Treaty of Lutsk (April 13, 1711), by which Moldavia pledges to support Russia in its war against the Ottomans with troops and by allowing the Russian army to cross its territory and place garrisons in Moldavian fortresses.

After having gathered near the Moldavian capital Jassy, the combined army starts on July 11 the march southwards along the Prut River with the intention of crossing the Danube and invade the Balkan peninsula.