The Moscow Peace Treaty was signed to officially bring an end to the Winter War, which erupted in November 1939 when the Soviet Union invaded Finland. The conflict arose from Soviet security concerns about its northwestern border following World War I and the onset of World War II. The Soviets sought to gain territory that would provide them a strategic advantage against potential threats, while Finland fought to preserve its independence. After months of intense and bloody fighting, heavy casualties were inflicted on both sides, with the Finnish forces demonstrating remarkable resistance despite being outnumbered and outgunned.

Negotiations began in early 1940, leading to the formal signing of the treaty in Moscow. The terms stipulated significant territorial concessions for Finland, including the loss of the Karelian Isthmus, Vyborg, and other areas. The USSR aimed to secure its borders and reinforce its position in the Baltic region while attempting to create a buffer zone against perceived threats. The Finnish delegation, though striving to maximize their negotiating position, had to accept the reality of the Soviet military might and the necessity of ending hostilities to prevent further destruction.

Although Finland lost valuable land, the peace treaty allowed the country to remain an independent state, maintaining a neutral position throughout subsequent conflicts, including World War II. The Finnish military used the lessons learned from the Winter War to further strengthen its forces, leading to a robust defense during later engagements. The signing of the peace treaty was a momentous occasion, marking both the resilience of Finland against a larger aggressor and a pivotal moment in Soviet-Finnish relations. This agreement filled a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of Northern Europe in the years to come.