The Russo-Turkish War refers to a series of conflicts between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire during the 18th and 19th centuries. The most notable war occurred from 1877 to 1878, driven by Russia's desire to expand its influence in the Balkans and support the independence of Slavic nations under Ottoman rule. The war ended with the Treaty of San Stefano, which significantly reduced Ottoman territory and established several new states. The conflict had lasting effects on the region, leading to the emergence of countries like Bulgaria and Serbia. It also set the stage for future tensions in the Balkans, contributing to the complex political landscape that would later lead to World War I. The war highlighted the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the rise of nationalist movements in the region.