The Treaty of San Stefano was signed on March 3, 1878, between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. It marked the end of the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878) and aimed to establish peace in the Balkans. The treaty granted significant territorial gains to Bulgaria, creating a large principality, and recognized the independence of Serbia, Montenegro, and Romania. However, the treaty faced criticism from other European powers, leading to the Congress of Berlin later that year. The Congress revised the terms, reducing Bulgaria's territory and altering the balance of power in the region, which had lasting effects on Balkan politics.