Anglo-Russian Crisis

Tensions arise between Great Britain and Russia during the course of the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78.

Russia is gaining considerable influence in the Balkans and Great Britain recognizes a threat to her interests.

Britain becomes particularly alarmed with Russian actions in the Eastern Mediterranean, which might impede British connections with India.

In a letter of May 6, 1877, to Russia, Lord Berby reaffirms the traditional British stance on Constantinople and the Straits, and includes a polite warning to Russia against attempts to blockade the Suez Canal or to occupy Constantinople.

When Russian troops move westward, the British orders portions of the fleet to sail to Besika Bay, where they arrive on July 3, 1877.The process of implementing the Russo-Turkish armistice, signed January 31, 1878, exacerbates tensions between Britain and Russia.

The British fleet sets sail on February 8, for Mediterranean waters near Constantinople.

Hostilities are avoided on February 18, 1878 when Russia agrees not to occupy Gallipoli and Britain agrees not to land troops on either side of the straits.The signing of the Treaty of San Stefano on March 3, 1878 opens the possibilities of settling the Eastern Question through further negotiations at the Congress of Berlin.

Preparations for this Congress lead to the second period of heightened tensions between Russia and Great Britain.

Domestic strife in England hinders decisive policy making on the Eastern Question.

This is resolved in March 1878 when Salisbury replaces Lord Derby as Foreign Minister.

On April 1, 1878 he distributes a circular that defends British policies and defines her position on the Eastern Question.

Britain and Russia reach agreement on May 30.

On July 13, a final agreement is signed at a congress in Berlin, with Bismarck assuming the role of mediator.

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