The Treaty of Tartu was a pivotal agreement signed between Finland and Soviet Russia, marked by negotiations that sought to reconcile territorial disputes arising from the aftermath of the Finnish Civil War and the broader implications of the Bolshevik Revolution. The Finnish Civil War had left Finland in a state of flux, and with the rise of the Soviet regime in Russia, the need for a formal agreement became increasingly pressing. Negotiations took place in the city of Tartu, Estonia, where both parties aimed to redefine their national boundaries peacefully. The treaty was signed on October 14, 1920, and aimed to solidify a mutual understanding and respect for each country's territorial integrity.

Under the terms of the Treaty of Tartu, Finland gained significant territories, including parts of the Karelian Isthmus and the area surrounding the city of Vyborg, reinforcing its national borders and sovereignty. The treaty also included a provision that recognized the independence of Finland amidst the shifting political landscape of Eastern Europe. This recognition was essential for Finland as it ensured that Soviet Russia accepted its existence as a separate and sovereign entity, ultimately fostering a more stable regional dynamic. Additionally, the treaty included stipulations regarding the treatment of minorities and trade relationships, promoting a sense of security and diplomatic engagement between the neighboring nations.

The Treaty of Tartu thus laid a foundation for future diplomatic relations between Finland and the Soviet Union, establishing a framework for ongoing dialogue and cooperation despite the precarious geopolitical climate of the time. It was celebrated by many Finns as a significant accomplishment of international diplomacy, contributed to Finland's consolidation of statehood, and outlined a peaceful coexistence for the subsequent years. However, the agreement was tested in later decades due to changing political circumstances and the eventual conflicts that arose in the 1940s.