Battle of Nova Zagora

The Battle of Nova Zagora formed part of Russian efforts to obstruct the Ottoman Central Army's passage through the eastern Balkan Mountain passes and defeat Ottoman forces in the fortress quadrilateral. Fought on 18/30 July 1877, it was strategically important for operations in southern Bulgaria during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878.

On 17/29 July, Reuf Pasha left Nova Zagora with the main body of its garrison to join the Ottoman Central Army and participate in the Battle of Stara Zagora. Only three battalions and Circassian cavalry remained in the town.

On 18/30 July, Lieutenant General Iosif Gurko's Advance Detachment approached Nova Zagora in three columns. The right column under Duke Nikolai of Leuchtenberg fought near Karabunar and then spent the night at Dalboki. Major General Adam Tsvetsinsky's central column headed towards Dolno Chanakchii, while Major General Ignaty Boreysha's left column advanced towards Banya and then Korten.

On the evening of 18/30 July, Russian forces attacked Nova Zagora. The defenders set the town on fire and held the railway station and southern quarter. After intense fighting, Russian troops breached the Ottoman positions and turned the retreat into a rout. They captured the town and pursued the enemy for several kilometres.

The victory strengthened the Russian strategic and operational initiative and hindered Ottoman efforts to unite their forces and seize key positions in eastern Bulgaria.